top 50 places to visit in france
Renaissance architecture lines the streets of Lilles old town. Just 20 minutes from Colmar is our personal favorite, Strasbourg. Most fish youll find in Cannes restaurants are caught on the same day theyre served to you. The Grand Theatre de Bordeaux, Place de la Bourse, and Les Allees de Touny are some of the citys finest historical monuments. However, in April 2019, a devastating fire broke out, and the cathedral was severely damaged. A historic port once visited by pirates, Saint Malo was also extremely damaged by bombing during WWII. We recommend the Auberge du Bon Laboureur or Le Clos dAmboise. Partake in the celebration of French food at the French Cuisine Festival (Fte de la Gastronomie) in September and Paris Chocolate Show (Salon du Chocolat) in October. Step Back to Medieval Times in Avignon, 16. It is a popular tourist destination and is often regarded as one of the best places to visit in France. Just metres from the Palais des Festivals and Croisette Beach,Htel Barrire Le Gray dAlbionexudes prestige and coastal style. Parts of theTour de Francerace crisscross through the Pyrenees. Theres also no way to get in or out of the island during high tide. The area is known as the Colosseum of Nature since its shape looks like an amphitheater and is surrounded by mountain peaks. Weve put together the best Paris itinerariesranging from two up to seven daysfor families, couples, foodies and everything in between. There are many things to do in Strasbourg, such as visiting the historic center, exploring the museums, or taking a boat ride on the river. Considered Frances black truffle capital, the Dordogne region is worth visiting even if its just for its amazing food. You can even join a gourmet walking tour to taste the local cuisine. The birthplace of science fiction writer Jules Verne, Nantes is home to not only a museum dedicated to his life and work but also the unique Machines de lle (Island of machines), a theme park that features machines inspired by his work. 16. There are many beautiful trails that wind through the forest and up into the mountains. In total, 25 experiences (a combination of rides, live shows and activities) aimed at both children and adults. In spring, Normandy is also teeming with beautiful beaches, flowers in bloom, and sunny days (although there might be some rain here and there). The local state-of-the-art Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and home to over 12,000 marine animals. Burgundy has long been known for its exceptional wines, so make sure you visit some vineyards (some of the oldest vineyards in the world are here) or at least have a glass with dinner while there. Most popular lavender fields tours start from Nice, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille. If youre looking for a romantic getaway, the Loire River Valley is the perfect place to visit in France. Discover the Best Travel Tools Le Mont Aiguille. You dont have to spend a lot to enjoy Cannes, though. The metropolitan city is easy to get tojust under two hours from Parisbut difficult to leave with its eclectic offerings. Luckily, most priceless, unique works of art within were saved. Located in the Midi-Pyrnes, Cordes-sur-Ciel is a fortified village set atop a hillside in Tarn, located approximately 50 miles northeast of Toulouse. Famous for its rich regional cuisines were talking fine wines, mature cheese and freshly baked baguettes these cities have more than enough ingredients for tourists to embrace authenticFrenchculture. Her followers continue to be inspired by her incredible story. 6. It is located 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Paris, making it easily accessible for even a day trip. The medieval city of Carcassone is most famous for its UNESCO World Heritage fortified citadel surrounded by Gallo-Roman walls. 101 Places to Visit in France, Tourist Places & Attractions - Thrillophilia The city was severely damaged in World War II but has since been rebuilt and is now a popular destination for tourists. Our critics picked six films that you can catch up with over the long holiday. See Related: Best Things to Do in Normandy. Key attractions: Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Notre Dam Cathedral, Palace of Versailles, Arc de Triomphe, and Montmartre Must Read: 31 Best Places To Visit In Paris For A Dreamy Vacation 2. Every spring, a festival in her honor takes over the streets with special reenactments and attractions. Just 1.5 hours by train from Paris, Rouen, the capital city of Normandy, is one of the most beautiful cities in France, filled with over 2,000 half-timbered houses dating back to the late Middle Ages. Dine like the locals at Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille on authentic Flemish beef dishes and pts in a cosy traditional restaurant. There are plenty of things to do in Bora Bora in addition to enjoying its stunning lagoons and marina life. Our French neighbours have no shortage of cultural hotspots that make for exciting city breaks. The country is home to stunning architecture, beautiful countryside, and delicious food. Mont Blanc towers over Chamonix, which makes it a popular destination for those who want to surround themselves by the French Alps and mountain peaks. Nice has a rich history that dates back to the Roman era. Walt Disney Studios Parkcelebrates films and show business, offering an insight into the world of Disney and Pixars animated characters. Youre in for an epicurean adventure as Lyon, the culinary capital of France, is the birthplace of bouchons, casual bistros where traditional French food is perfected. When you purchase a product or book a reservation, we may earn a commission. Great day trips from Marseille include a visit to the Parc National des Calanquesfor some swimming in beautiful beaches, a stop in Avignon to discover its manycultural delights, or an escape to Niece to experience the French Riviera in all its splendor. Avignon walking tours and wine tastings are great ways to experience the city. Where to stay: Indulge in resort-style properties flanking the famous Promenade des Anglais like Hotel Le Negresco and Le Meridien Nice. The city of Marseille offers tiny cafs with fantastic views and Instragrammable photo opportunities around every corner. It is one of the few French cities to have kept its medieval city walls. Luxury seafront resorts, designer boutiques and dining on fresh oysters and speciality stews are synonymous with a stay in Cannes. This chic town has been a playground for the rich and famous since the 1950s and remains one of the most exclusive vacation destinations in the world. Bordeaux. Take a boat ride on the canals, explore some of the local museums (including the former Fort Rapp Moltke and the stunning Musee Des Beaux-Arts), and grab some art to take home Strasbourg has plenty of great art galleries. The port city Marseille is Frances second-largest and often underrated city. Have you visited any of these places or have something else to add to the list? These include two amphitheaters, which in summer are often used for performances and live concerts. Dordogne (Nouvelle-Aquitaine) Autumn is a fantastic time to see the Dordogne Valley and the Vezre Valley in the Prigord. The city is alive with culture, art, and fashion. 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The Notre Dame Cathedral is located in the heart of Paris, on the le de la Cit. The Calanques of Marseille are a series of limestone cliffs sitting right on the sea. You can purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance to maximize your time at the aqueduct. Reims is in the Champagne region of France and home to incredible champagne houses. Valence, a charming city in the Rhne Valley, is rich in history and art. The cathedral is famous for its stunning architecture and stained glass windows. Valence, a charming city in the Rhne Valley, is rich in history and art. The dune is currently about 106 meters high and can be climbed. In the summer, Chamonix is a sight to see the green forests, large meadows, snow-capped peaks, and everything coming together in an amazing way. This amazing city is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants and a huge range of traditional bistros. A perfect place to try water sports, swim with the harmless basking sharks, and explore the five-kilometer long Mer Blanchedune. Some of the world-class wineries to explore in Burgundy are located on the Wine Trail if you have a car, driving the route that runs from Chablis to Mcon will take you to many great ones. You can experience the glamour of this city by strolling down the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, which separates high-end . 25 Best Places to Stay in Outer Banks to See Wild Horses, Copyright ViaTravelers.com | All Rights Reserved, Best Spring Break Destinations for Families, How to Earn Rewards Without a Credit Card, Best Places to Visit in France & Top Things to Do, 6. Tucked in the north-western part of Brittany, Rennes is a lively city and the region's hub-just a swift 2-hour train ride from Paris. (MORE: Biggest, Tallest, Oldest: 50 World Records of Travel) Many tourists come to France just to visit the iconic city of Paris, which has been considered the most romantic city in the popular . The Chteau de Chambord is considered the king of all the castles here. The Louvre Museum is the worlds largest and arguably most famous museum, making it one of Frances best places to visit. Our favorite view of the Eiffel Tower is from the Pont Alexandre. Most famous for hosting the Cannes Film Festival, Cannes is also a hot destination for the rich and famous. Youll find farmers markets sitting next door to Michelin-starred restaurants, and great flea markets sharing the spotlights with big names like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior. See the Joan of Arc Monuments in Chinon, Rouen & Orlans, 13. Cannes is best recognized for its annual Cannes Film Festival, which has gained a reputation as one of the most famous luxury getaways on the planet. You can also learn more about her at the local Joan of Arc museum. Cannes is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. The Plage des Catalans (main city in town) and the Plage du Prophte, filled with activities. And, of course, the nearby spa towns offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate. Toulouse is often called La Ville Rose (the pink city) because many of the buildings in its Old Town are made of pale terracotta bricks that look pinkish in the sunlight. At just under 3km long and 500 meters wide but growing every year it is certainly impressive. This is quite obvious in the architecture of the city, especially around the main square. You can explore the galleries and studios, meet local artists, and see their work firsthand. See Related: Best Day Trips From Strasbourg. Want More Destination Ideas Direct to Your Inbox? Theres also Virus Attack, where a simulator ride sends you inside the human body to fight a virus. Marseille / Best Places to Visit in Southern France. Get a Chantilly skip-the-line ticket and enjoy discovering the palace without waiting in lines. Cannes. Winter has fewer tourists, but it will rain frequently. Whether youre a culture enthusiast, a food lover, or an outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of fun things to do in Cannes. From exploring a labyrinth of enchanting streets to participating in its rich history and culture,there are a myriad of things to do in Toulouse that offer a glimpse into authentic French life. Spacious luxury suites feature large terraces and the hotels private beach with seasonal Mediterranean restaurant, Mademoiselle Gray, is the perfect spot for soaking up the sun. As the tallest sand dune in Europe, the Dune du Pilat at Arcachon Bay is a sight to behold, one of the most popular places to visit in France. Where to stay: Boutique hotels like Le Saint-Antoine Hotel & Spa and Balthazar Htel & Spa are irresistible with their top-notch services and facilities. The car was the UK's best-selling vehicle every year between 2009 and 2020, selling more in the UK than any other car model. Buying tickets in advance for the Louvre is essential, as the museum can be very crowded and youll want to skip the line. The modern units have hot tubss, saunas and cosy seating areas all just a stones throw away from the Znith of Lille, Grand Palais and Aeronef music venue. There are also several villages located in the area, which offer a chance to explore traditional French culture. But Bordeaux is also home to over 300 historical monuments and landmarks, including the 1700s Place de la Bourse, the opera house Grand Thtre de Bordeaux, and a number of Roman ruins. 10 Best Places to Visit in France (with Map) - Touropia Reims is a historically significant city in France, recognized as the site of most of Frances coronations. Another must-do here includes visiting the La Marche Provenal market to pick up fresh food, jams or other food souvenirs while listening to live music. Visitors should also stop by theChteau dAnnecy, a restored castlethat serves as a museum and offers great views over the city. Between June and August, large fields turn purple as lavender blooms under the strong summer sun one of the best places to visit in France for Instagram addicts. Fall is a perfect time to do outdoor activities here. Whether youre in town for the film festival or just looking to enjoy a luxury vacation, Cannes is a great place to visit in Southern France. The city also has wonderful cuisine, with everything from luxury Michelin-star restaurants to inexpensive local meals and street food. The museum houses more than 380,000 artworks, including the aforementioned Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Looking for the best places to visit in France with kids? See Related: How Much Is A Trip to Paris? It took over two hundred years to build and was finally completed in the 13th Century. The monastery is perched atop a rocky outcrop and can only be reached at low tide. Angers fine arts museum, the Muse des Beaux-Arts, is a great stop, and so is the 12th-century Angers Cathedral, For a more active day out, head to Terra Botanica, a unique theme park where all the attractions and rides are designed around plant life. Cannes is famous for its film festival and luxury harbours. Soak in the unique atmosphere of Marseille by wandering through its old port and the multicultural Panier District. See Related: Best Hotels in Paris With a View of the Eiffel Tower. Join a wine-tasting tour to Saint milion to experience the magic of French wine. The historic city has been preserved to look similar to how it did hundreds of years ago as a tiny village. Revel in Nature at Cirque de Gavarnie in Pyrenees Mountains, 12. January 18, 2023 Europe, France One word - variety. Located right on the French Riviera, Nice is the place to visit for sunny weather, blue waters, and golden sands. The park is a beautiful area spanning Spain and France, filled with lush forests and valleys. Learn About D-Day on the Normandy Coastline, 7. If youre looking for a luxurious vacation spot with plenty of celebrity sightings, Saint-Tropez is a great choice. International Texting: Is International SMS Messaging Free? If you are looking for a charming place to visit in France, youve found it. 20 of the most beautiful villages in France The best part? The city is home to over 7,000 wineries, and you can book a guided wine tasting and tour to not only taste but also fully understand the wine-making process. There are fewer tourists, and the weather is pleasant. The French government invested a vast sum of money in the restoration of Notre Dame, with repairs slated to be completed in 2024, just in time for the Paris Olympics. more, Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise, Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting, Eiffel Tower Reserved access Tour with Summit Access by Elevator, Paris Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show with Champagne Only or Dinner, Montmartre Hill Sweet & Savory French Gourmet Food & Wine Tasting Tour, Versailles Domain Guided Day Bike Tour with Palace Entrance from Paris by Train, Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Venus de Milo & Mona Lisa, Saint Emilion Day Trip with Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings from Bordeaux. By Lindsay. The Romans were already producing wine around Saint Emilion in the 3rd century BC, and that tradition continues today. We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our personal experiences. Positioned comfortably between Burgundy and Provence, Lyon is Frances third-largest city. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) At the gateway of southern France, Valence welcomes visitors to its sunny riverside . And the towns of Annecy and Chamonix are great destinations in the region, with plenty of charm, great food and plenty of their own attractions. The City of Lights is one of the most popular places to visit in France, home to the Louvre Museum (are you an art lover? Disneyland Park is modeled after the US-based parks and is divided into five zones, including Frontierland (designed as an American West mining town), Fantasyland (where the Sleeping Beauty Castle is located), and Discoveryland, which features attractions based on discoveries and inventions by famous European like Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. Languedoc-Roussillon, another of the best places in the country to visit, lies on the coast of the Mediterranean between Provence and Spain. Or in true foodie spirit, when we eat more, we travel better. The walk to Mont Saint Michel from the mainland takes about an hour and a half, but there are plenty of guided tours that will bring you straight there. Then have a seafood lunch near the water or try snorkeling if youre visiting during the summer. Where to stay: Check out the impressive range of accommodation, from the Michelin-recommended Grand Hotel La Cloche Dijon to a beautiful monastery-turned-hotel Appart'Hotel Odalys Les Cordeliers. Within the city center, you can also tour the amphitheater and other ruins from Roman times. In fact, the Chteau dAngers, originally built in the 9th century, is one of the towns most important attractions. Once a sleepy fishing village, today it offers some of the most delicious fresh fish. 8 best cities to visit in France and what you can do in each Theres also the Cathdrale de Notre Dame de Strasbourg, Europes tallest medieval building (the spire reaches 142 meters high), and La Petite France area, a historic quarter with beautiful canals cutting through it. The best places and cities to visit in France and where to stay 1. The historic town of Antibes also boasts centuries-old castles and forts either right in town or within minutes. The best time to visit is in the fall or spring. Palace of Versailles. 17. 19. During low tide, its possible to walk across the bridge or take a shuttle bus to the island but once you cross the admission gates, walking is the only option. See Related: How to Book Cheap One-Way International Flights. Overall, a trip to Marseille is essential for almost everyone who visits France. Adventure Excursions. To get to Normandy from Paris, take the TGV train from the Gare du Nord station in Paris. We highly recommend coming here to watch the tower light up and sparkle at night! There are also many things to do in Nice, like sunbathing, swimming, shopping and eating out. A charming medieval village in the Bordeaux region, Saint Emilion is home to a 12th-century Monolithic church and an underground complex consisting of tunnels, caves, and catacombs. Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux Cathedral, Gran Teatro de Burdeos, Muse d'Aquitaine, Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts, Place des Quinconces, Pont de Pierre and Grosse Cloche are some of those attractions. Northern France is the easiest part of France to visit from Paris and includes cities like Normandy, Reims, and Versailles. From left, Grace Edwards, Scarlett Johansson and Damien Bonnard in "Asteroid City . See related: Most Famous Historical Landmarks in France. With so many things to do in Paris, its hard to pick just a few favorite ones. The historic district in Colmar is lined with beautiful half-timbered homes that are neatly situated along its extensive canal system. The city is home to over 160 parks, a great destination for food lovers, and filled with architectural heritage and cultural attractions. Looking for the best places to visit for nature lovers? Copyright 2023 TourScanner | All rights reserved. There is also an archaeological museum on-site, which is worth a visit if youre interested in learning more about the history of the area. The restaurants are incredible, and the Reims Cathedral is one of the most visited religious buildings in the area. Visit the 11th-Century Saint Paul de Vence Village, 20. The oldest part of the city, Grand Bayonne, offers great shopping, while Petit Bayonne has museums and lively bars to offer. 14 Prettiest Villages in France For This Summer | Best Villages - Time Out Trip Ideas The South of France Is My Favorite Vacation Destination Here Are Its 20 Best Places to Visit The lavender fields, quaint villages, and beautiful beaches have my heart. The 100 Most Unique And Beautiful Places To Visit In France - Travelvibe Among the best things you can do in Paris is join a bus tour or an evening cruise on the River Seine. So take a wine tour and bring some wine home for later! Hybrid sausages, bretzel bread, kugelhopf cake, choucroute, and most importantly, some of Frances finest beer are available here. Best Places to Stay One of the most iconic attractions in France, Mont Saint-Michel is located on a rocky tidal island, which means it's only an island at high tide. Cost of living - latest updates: Supermarket to 'lovebomb' shoplifters Joan of Arc was burned at the stake on the streets of Rouen and theres now both a museum and a church dedicated to her story here. There's a lot to fit in, but here are the best places to visit in France. 17 Best Places To Visit In Spring In France - The Adventurous Feet France Places to Visit (for Every Traveler) - NeverStopTraveling The countrys varied landscape is home to mountain ranges, idyllic islands and bustling cosmopolitan hubs with diverse weather conditions that facilitate holidays from exhilarating snow sports to romantic city breaks and relaxing beach stays on the French Riviera. Among the best things to do in the city is to join a wine tour or a Cannes sightseeing tour. A major commercial and cultural destination, Strasbourg has plenty to offer to visitors from great shopping to amazing Alsatian cuisine to an Old Town filled with medieval half-timbered houses. Stray beyond the iconic arrondissements of Frances poster child,Paris, and youll discover a wealth of food, fashion and art destinations just across the English Channel. Reaching the gorge can be tricky, as you need a car. The Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in all of Europe, is one of the most famous buildings in Avignon. Best Hidden Gems and Secret Places in France Nearby the city center is Saint-Emilion and Medoc, which are known for incredible wines. Walk down Rue du Gros-Horloge and marvel at the much-photographed Great Clock (Gros-Horloge). Getting your own Lyon City Pass makes your tour easier. The resort town of Etretat, just minutes away, is host to a golf course, charming gardens, and a marquet square filled with timber-frame houses. In the 14th century, Avignon was the center of Christianity, as popes lived here to escape the rampant corruption happening in Rome at the time. The Arc de Triomphe is an iconic monument located in the heart of Paris. Notre Dame Cathedral is a must-see destination when visiting France and one of our favorite places to visit in the world. Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in. It is located in the capital city of Paris and is home to some of the most famous artworks in the world, including the Mona Lisa. Some top places to visit in Nice include the Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, Place Massna, and Castle Hill. The towns Vieux Port (Old Harbor) features three medieval towers, plenty of seafood restaurants with beautiful water views, and boats you can jump on to cruise the bay day and night. Then in the city center, you will find the Strasbourg Cathedral. This curated Paris itinerary includes all the city's many attractions, plus hidden gems you may not have heard about. Martinique in particular is famous for its rich Creole cuisine, cultural heritage, and stunning beaches. Reims is largely walkable, so theres no need to call a taxi home after a few glasses of bubbly.