Top things to do while in France
France is a country that truly has it all - iconic landmarks, rich history, world-renowned food and wine, and a landscape that ranges from alpine peaks to sun-drenched coastlines. Whether you're exploring charming countryside villages, sipping wine in a centuries-old vineyard, or wandering through the grand halls of a Parisian museum, France delivers experiences that stay with you long after you return home.
While it has a reputation as a bit of a romantic, France caters to every kind of traveller. History lovers can retrace the footsteps of some of Europe's most famous kings and queens in opulent palaces, foodies can lose themselves in the colourful market stalls of great gastronomic capitals and, for the more active, France has pristine national parks ripe for exploration. Beyond the well-trodden sights of Paris, there's a world of off-the-beaten-path gems waiting to be discovered - from medieval hill towns and quiet coastal inlets to under-the-radar wine regions and serene alpine retreats.
In this guide, we round up the best things to do in France, with a mix of cultural, culinary, and outdoor adventures. Whether you have a week or a month, our guide to the best things to do in France will help you make the most of your time in one of Europe’s most captivating countries.
Best things to do in Paris
Sightsee - The Eiffle Tower, Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
One of Europe's most iconic cities is home to some of the world's most iconic sights.
The Eiffel Tower is the ultimate symbol of the city. Stretching 330 meters into the sky, this iron masterpiece offers dazzling views over the City of Lights. Whether you're exploring alone, on a French river cruise or an escorted tour, this is a must-visit for every Parisian itinerary - especially at night when it's lit up.
Take a leisurely stroll down the Champs-Élysées for a quintessentially Parisian experience, stopping to peruse the shops and cafés lining the street. It culminates in the impressive Arc de Triomphe - we recommend climbing to the top for one of the best views in the city, with Paris' boulevards radiating out from the monument in every direction.
Marvel at the art in the Louvre
Home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Liberty Leading the People, the Winged Victor of Samothrace and thousands of other masterpieces, the Louvre is the world's largest art museum and an unmissable Parisian experience. Beyond its vast galleries, the Louvre itself is a work of art – from the elegant palace exterior to the striking glass pyramid in the courtyard. With everything from ancient sculptures to Renaissance gems, you could spend more than a few hours here.
Wander around Montmartre
While there are 20 arrondissements to explore in Paris, a captivating little neighbourhood in the 18th is one of the most beloved neighbourhoods in the whole of France. Crowned by the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur - a gleaming white beauty with sweeping views across Paris - Montmartre was once an artistic hub, home to luminaries like Monet, Benoir and Degas.
Time spent exploring the artistic streets of Montmartre bustling with cafés, galleries and street performers is a must for any visitor.
Visit Versailles
Just a short drive away from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is world-renowned for its excess-driven opulence - the greatest of the French châteaux. Its golden gilded rooms put France on the path to revolution triggering more revolutions throughout Europe. Spend the day exploring the magnificent Royal Apartments, view some of the 60,000 works of art and visit the famous Hall of Mirrors - the historic spot where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending the First World War.
Outside, the palace grounds are no less impressive. See the pink marble Grand Trianon and the Petite Trianon, gifted to Marie Antoinette by Louise XVI. Visit the peasant village commissioned by the famous queen, which shows just how out of touch royalty were with their people. Perhaps simply stroll through the manicured gardens, admiring the ornate foundations, exquisite sculptures and splendid baroque garden design.
Other experiences in Paris
- Musée d'Orsay – Impressionist art gallery housed in a Beaux-Arts railway station
- Sainte-Chapelle – Gothic church with dazzling stained-glass windows
- Latin Quarter – Historic neighbourhood with lively cafés and bookshops
Find out more about things to do in Paris on our blog.
Best things to do in the Loire Valley
Uncover France’s legendary châteaux of Loire Valley
France is home to over 4000 castles and châteaux. They're more than just beautiful buildings - they're gateways into the country's past, architecture and cultural soul.
The Loire Valley is famed for its Renaissance castles, like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau but, for history, nothing beats Château de Fontainebleau. Home to 34 kings and two emperors, it's one of the most continuously inhabited royal homes in France. Unlike many historic sites, Fontainebleau boasts fully furnished interiors, giving you a real sense of life in the royal court. Outside, you'll find extensive gardens and Europe’s largest parterre (flat, formal garden area), as well as the Napoleon I Museum.
Another gem of the Loire Valley is Château Gaillard. Easily spotted from a Seine river cruise, Gaillard is a marvel of medieval military design perched high above the river. Built by Richard the Lionheart, the fortress offers a glimpse into Normandy’s turbulent past with atmospheric crumbling walls towers and ramparts, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Other experiences in the Loire Valley
- Amboise - Enjoy royal history, and see the final home of Leonardo da Vinci
- Wine tasting in Vouvray – Sample the region’s crisp white wines
- Cycling along the Loire à Vélo – Scenic bike trails through countryside and castles
Best things to do in Normandy
Venture to the island of Mont Saint Michel
Rising dramatically from the tidal flats between Brittany and Normandy, Mont Saint Michel is an absolutely unforgettable sight. The medieval abbey clinging to a rocky outcrop just out to sea is a marvel of Gothic architecture with spires stretching ever-skyward. The holy island is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site reachable by walking across the bay during low tide, by walkway bridge or by horse-drawn carriage, once on the tiny island, you can explore the winding village streets to the summit.
Follow in the footsteps of the brave soldiers of the D-Day landing
Normandy's beaches are a deeply moving place to visit. On 6th June 1994, over 150,000 Allied troops landed on the five beaches of Normandy - Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno and Sword - which led to the final liberation of Europe during WWII. Today, memorials, cemeteries and museums offer powerful insight into the bravery and sacrifice of the Allied forces.
See the Bayeux Tapestry
The historic centre of Bayeux is home to the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry. This UNESCO-listed tapestry depicts the Norman conquest of England in 1066 in astonishing detail. Measuring nearly 70 metres long, the tapestry is displayed in Bayeux's museum and is a masterpiece of medieval storytelling.
Other experiences in Normandy
- Rouen – Gothic cathedral city where Joan of Arc was martyred
- Honfleur – Quaint harbour town beloved by Impressionist painters
- Calvados tasting – Try the region’s famous apple brandy
Best things to do on the French Riviera
Enjoy Nice's elegance
For old-world elegance and Mediterranean charm, look no further than Nice. Originating as a Greek settlement before the Romans arrived, there are remnants of these two great civilizations scattered across the city. As you wander through the pastel-hued old town, or enjoy the panoramic views from Castle Hill, you'll see why aristocrats, artists and celebrities have been flocking here since the second half of the 18th century.
Relax on the golden beaches of Cannes
Synonymous with glitz and film festivals, Cannes also boasts golden beaches, designer boutiques and elegant seaside promenades. For a more tranquil escape, hop on a boat to the nearby Lérins Islands, known for their unspoiled beauty and serene atmosphere.
Other experiences on the French Riviera
- Èze – Clifftop medieval village with stunning views and exotic gardens
- Monaco - surrounded by France, the tiny principality of Monaco is famed for its grandeur and glamour
- Saint-Tropez – Chic beach resort famed for luxury and celebrity sightings
- Menton – Seaside town known for lemon groves and Belle Époque architecture
Other things to do in France
Explore Alsace
Straddling the German border, Alsace is a picturesque region known for its timber-framed villages and white wines. Wander through the charming streets of Colmar and Strasbourg, or follow the Alsace Wine Route through rolling vineyards and fairy-tale towns.
Visit the Dordogne Valley
With medieval towns, dramatic castles and prehistoric cave art, the Dordogne region is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. Canoe along the Dordogne River, explore cliffside villages like Rocamadour, or marvel at the ancient drawings in Lascaux Cave.
Popular questions about things to do and see in France
What are the 5 famous things in France?
If you only have a little time, these are the five iconic French experiences that belong on every traveller’s list:
- The Eiffel Tower in Paris – An architectural marvel and global symbol of France.
- Louvre Museum – Home to the Mona Lisa and over 35,000 works of art.
- French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) – Glamorous beaches and coastal towns like Nice and Saint-Tropez.
- Champagne and Bordeaux vineyards – Legendary wine regions that define French viticulture.
- Mont Saint-Michel – A fairy-tale abbey rising from the sea in Normandy.
Is 7 days enough in France?
Seven days gives you a solid taste of France, especially if you focus on one or two regions:
- For first-timers, a Paris–Loire Valley–Versailles loop works well.
- For food and wine lovers, pair Lyon with Burgundy or Bordeaux.
- For nature seekers, combine the Alps with Lake Annecy or Provence.
That said, France is a country worth returning to. With so much diversity packed into one destination, every visit can be a new adventure.
