Mon amour… France is one of the most picturesque, romantic, and culturally rich countries in the world with no shortage of items to add to your bucket list. You’ll never be able to see, do, or eat it all, but here are 25 of our favourite things to do in France to get you started:
25. Climb the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc is a beauty from below but the views of the Eiffel and the rest of pretty Paris are worth the leg workout.
24. See the Moulin Rouge
There are so many amazing shows to see in France but the Moulin Rouge is at the top of this list – complete with great food and wine of course. Enjoy the feathers, dancing, singing, magic, and stunts on your next trip to Paris.
23. Explore Versailles
The palace of all palaces will give you endless home envy, where you can work all your best angles in the Hall of Mirrors. Explore the stunning grounds and envision what royal life was like in a time before modesty was quite so admirable.
22. See Notre Dame
Even though Notre Dame is still being restored after it caught fire in 2019, it’s well worth a visit when you’re in Paris. One of the most distinguished buildings in the world, Notre Dame has some of the most stunning stained glass you’ll ever see. The nearby Sainte-Chappelle is a must-see for this reason too.
21. Café hop
People watching is a popular pastime in France, and cafés are the perfect place to do so. The experience celebrates the chance to get together, relax and enjoy a great time with friends. Something we’re all looking forward to more of next year!
20. Meet Mona Lisa at the Louvre
The Mona Lisa is arguably the most famous piece of art in the world, and seeing her enchanting smile (or is it smirk…?) for yourself is a must-do for any Paris visitor.
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19. Wander through Montmartre
As one of the trendiest areas in France, there’s always something beautiful, unique and delicious to find in Montmartre. So have some fun checking it out!
18. Sip Champagne at a picnic
A baguette is mandatory of course – some charcuterie wouldn’t hurt – and real champagne is the best way to do it. Enjoy a Parisian picnic in any of the beautiful parks and green spaces in France.
17. Spend the day eating in Lyon
Lyon is known to be one of the most gastronomically rich cities in Europe. From escargot to tartare, the Michelin rated restaurants are everywhere. Budget-conscious? You’ll find amazing cheap eats all over the city too.
16. Explore the Paris Catacombs
These underground ossuaries are one of Paris’ hidden gems. Go 20 meters underground for a unique perspective on Parisian history.
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15. See Mont Saint-Michel
This island of architecture is one of the top things to do in France. See it for yourself to understand why. The monastery and houses around it on the island appear to rise out of the water like magic, and it’s a lovely place to explore on foot too.
14. Wander Musée d’Orsay
The Louvre may be Paris’ main museum attraction, but the Musée d’Orsay is a massive wonder, full of impressionist masterpieces and French art. Definitely worth a visit just to spot a Renoir, Monet, or Van Gogh in real life.
13. Take a cooking class
French cooking is one of the most famous and highly regarded styles in the world. Once you pick up some of the skills to take home with you, you’ll thank yourself for years to come.
12. Wander lavender fields in Provence
Maybe it’s because of the soothing properties of lavender. Maybe it’s all for the ‘Gram. Either way, the stunning fields of purple lavender are some of the most unique and visually stunning places to see in France.
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11. Relax in Old Town Nice
Once you’re all beached out, the Old Town is one of the prettiest places to wander along the coast. It has its fair share of endless delicious eats and tiny cobblestone streets to get lost down.
10. Spend a gourmet weekend at a French chateau
A trip to France wouldn’t be complete without a taste of luxury. A couple of evenings of wine, yoga, and relaxation by the pool of a French chateau will make quick work of all of your worries, at least for a little while.
9. See the Pont du Gard
This ancient Roman bridge almost looks like the Colosseum unrolled, and it’s a unique and impressive architectural feat to see in Southern France.
8. Shop on the Champs-Élysées
Maybe you’ll pick up a crêpe, or something chic. Either way, this stunning street in Paris is worth a wander, even if you’re just window shopping.
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7. Find your new favourite pastry
France may not have invented the pastry, but they’ve sure perfected it. From pain au chocolat to éclairs, macarons to tarte tatin and even mille-feuille, there’s a French pastry for every mood and occasion of the day. You can’t leave France until you’ve had your fill.
6. Get on the Seine
Maybe it’s a relaxing dinner cruise. Maybe it’s some salmon fishing. And by 2024, you’ll probably be permitted to swim in it too. Regardless, some time on the Seine is mandatory when in Paris.
5. Explore Cannes
Celeb spotting, yacht ogling, swimming in the stunning waters – it’s a life we could get used to. Cannes does a number on the wallet but it’s worth a short and sweet visit for the coastal luxurious charm.
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4. Ski in Chamonix
Ski lovers flock to Chamonix for a reason. It’s one of the most stunning and pristine ski areas in the world, with an amazing French flair.
3. Hit the Beach in Nice
You just can’t make a list of things to do in France without Nice. The shores of those blue Mediterranean waters are some of the most beloved places in the French Riviera. The ability to combine French city life with beautiful beaches makes Nice a favourite for so many visitors.
2. Go on a wine cycling tour in Burgundy
French wine is divine, and there’s nothing like completing your own Pour de France through the French countryside. With rolling vineyards and storybook streets, the Burgundy region was made to explore on two wheels.
1. See the Eiffel Tower by night
She’s a beauty in the day, but oh does she shine at night! The magic of Paris is amplified tenfold lit up in the dark, and the Eiffel is the grand finale. She’ll steal the show and steal your heart with her magical, glowing silhouette.
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