14 Best Places To Visit In France

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Whether you are planning a trip to France for the first time or visiting France for the hundredth time, there are plenty of places to visit in France. From the medieval cities of Paris to the historical village of Mont Saint Michel, there are plenty of iconic places to visit and things do in France. But to make it's easy for you to plan your trip, here's a list of the best places to visit in France.

1. Paris

Visiting Paris, the capital of France is a great experience for people from all over the world. Paris is a city full of beautiful renaissance architecture and cultural sites such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. Some of the top places to visit in Paris, France include:

The Arc de Triomphe, a renowned monument in France. It is located at the base of the Champs-Elysees and features grand hallways, 330 spiral stairs, beautiful rooms with fireplaces, and a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The Louvre Art Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Paris. It is home to the world's most extensive collection of Impressionist masterpieces including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. It is also famous for its famous skylight.

Besides, the Louvre, there are several other museums in Paris to explore. The Picasso Museum is a popular attraction that needs no introduction. It features more than 5000 pieces of Pablo Picasso's work, and has a unique structure which is located in the former railway station.

Another museum is the Musee Rodin. This museum features works by French sculptor Auguste Rodin, it is located in the center of Paris and is open every day except Monday. It is especially popular for the quality of its temporary exhibitions.

2. Lyon

Located in France, Lyon is a city with great things to do, and one of many places to see in France. There are activities for everyone from history buffs to foodies. The city was once the capital of the Gauls, a Roman Empire, and has two ancient Roman theaters. These outdoor theaters were originally performance venues. Today, the theaters are still a popular tourist attraction.

There are also many art museums to visit. The Fine Arts Museum of Lyon is located in a former 17th century abbey and has one of the largest art collections in Europe. While the Textile Arts and Decorative Arts Museum has an incredible collection of artifacts from the fashion and music industries. This museum is free on Thursdays.

There are also a number of great restaurants in Lyon. If you're looking for fine dining, try Paul Bocuse, a world-famous double Michelin star chef. Other famous restaurants include Takao Takano and Mere Brazier.

If you're into cars, you can visit Henri Malartre's museum, which features a collection of vintage 1960's race cars. The museum also has artifacts from the early motor prototypes.

One of the best things to do in France is to go to the basilica of Lyon. It's a challenging walk as the basilica is located on the tallest hill in the city. It's one of the most photographed structures and has a gorgeous interior. The basilica is also home to the Museum of Sacred Art.

                             Best Things To Do In Lyon

3. Nice

Located on the French Riviera in southern France, Nice is a charming vacation destination. This ancient city has a wealth of things to do and places to explore. There are many art galleries and museums, as well as some incredible beaches.

One of the best things to do in Nice is to visit the city's Old Town. This historical district is filled with charming buildings and winding cobblestone streets. With many of the buildings having Italianate facades.

The Old Town is also a good place to shop. You can also visit the Cours Saleya Market, where there are several places to eat and drink, as well as a variety of bars, while you enjoy a scenic view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Another great place to visit in Nice is the Nice Museum. This museum is home to a large collection of art. There are works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Yves Klein. You can also take a look at Matisse's art collection, the museum displays his sculptures and sketches.

Another beautiful place to explore in Nice has to do with the Port of Nice. This historic port is still a popular spot for locals to relax, here you will find several restaurants and bars, as well as antique shops.

4. Cannes

Located on the French Riviera coastline in the south of France, Cannes is a city with a lively, festive atmosphere in the summer months. It is home to luxury hotels, gourmet restaurants, and the Cannes Film Festival. It also has a wide promenade lined with designer shops and yachts. It is a great city in this corner of France to spend your days.

Cannes has several neighborhoods that offer different atmospheres. Some are more modern and elegant while others are more historic. The Old Town of Cannes, for example, was inhabited for centuries by Romans. It has red tiled roofs and pink walls. And is lined with luxury hotels, designer shops, and palatial villas.

Cannes also has a marina filled with fishing boats and yachts. There are also private beaches in the city. The most popular beaches are along the Croisette. You can rent a stand up paddleboard or a kayak to explore the area.

Another place you may want to visit is the Musee des Explorations du Monde. This museum features pre-Columbian art and antiquities from Mediterranean civilizations. You can also see works by Picasso and Matisse. The museum also features a large collection of musical instruments. If you are more the adventurous type you can also go hiking in the hills of Cannes.

Cannes is known to have a lot of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the biggest are the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity and the Cannes Film Festival in April which draw big crowds of fans and celebrities.

Recommended reading: Best Things To Do In Cannes

5. Mont Saint-Michel

Located in the northern part of France, Mont Saint-Michel village is one of the most visited tourist sites in Europe. With over two million visitors per year, this beautiful town has long captured the imagination of visitors from around the world. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in France, and its history dates back to the 8th century.

The major landmarks to visit in Mont Saint-Michel include the abbey, which has a long history dating back to the year 708. In 708 the Archbishop Aubert of Avranches built an abbey on the island and it became an important pilgrimage site, supported by the dukes of Normandy.

This place is a world-renowned attraction, and it has been featured on many postcards throughout history. The building is an amazing feat of construction, spanning over 13 centuries, with spires that rise 155 meters above the sea.

The abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is an amazing example of medieval gothic architecture. Throughout the Middle Ages it was a renowned learning center. People of the time considered it an image of Paradise.

The site is open to visitors for a guided tour, and it is possible to spend up to four hours exploring the monastery. The tour includes a drive through the Normandy countryside, time to explore the island, and the chance to see the famous sands of the bay.

6. Toulouse

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie or simply want to relax, Toulouse, an aviation hub since the 1980s, has a lot to offer. With its charming architecture, breathtaking view of the Garonne River and amazing museums, there is plenty to see and do in Toulouse.

One of the most famous landmarks in Toulouse is the Basilica of Saint Sernin. This beautiful basilica is a well-preserved Roman basilica, built between 1080 and 1120. The basilica is surrounded by a series of salons, each filled with evocative sculpture.

The Musee des Augustins de Toulouse is the city's finest art museum. It houses an eclectic cache of paintings from the 17th to the 20th centuries. The museum is housed in a large 14th century convent and exhibits works by Rubens, Delacroix, and Toulouse-Lautrec.

One of the most beautiful places to enjoy in Toulouse is the Quai de la Daurade. This promenade offers a panoramic view of the city, and is a perfect place to stop and enjoy a glass of wine or homemade pastry.

The Pont Neuf, which was built in 1544, is Toulouse's oldest bridge. It is surrounded by a tree canopy, making it a relaxing place to walk or have a picnic. The city of Toulouse is also home to many grand mansions from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Accommodation: Where To Stay In Toulouse

Recommended reading: Best Things To Do In Toulouse

7. Strasbourg

Known as the Capital of Europe, Strasbourg, located at the France and Germany border in th Alsace region has a lot to offer visitors. Its historic old town is the heart of the city. It is also home to several European Institutions, including the European Parliament.

Strasbourg's main tourist attractions include the Cathedral of Notre Dame which is located in the heart of the city.. This Gothic masterpiece has an 18-meter high astronomical clock and depicts scenes of the Last Judgment. It also hosts a sound and light show, and surrounded by shops and restaurants.

This city has many museums. The Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Alsatian Museum are two examples. There are also a number of other museums to visit. The Archeological Museum, for example, has a large collection of historical artifacts, including military weapons, paintings and scale models.

During the Christmas season, its Christmas market is known for being one of the best in Europe. Strasbourg is also known for its beer. There are many microbreweries around the city that produce interesting beers for local consumption.

Accommodation: Best Places To Stay In Strasbourg

Recommended reading: Best Things To Do In Strasbourg

8. The Loire Valley

Located in northern France, the Loire Valley is a beautiful place to visit and the garden of France. It offers a wonderful mix of natural landscapes, medieval towns and stunning castles. This region in France is also home to some of the country's most impressive wines, so it's a great place for a road trip.

In fact, the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And a lot of travelers base their trips around the castles, as there are several castles to choose from, including the Chateau d'Amboise, the Chambord, the Chenonceau and the Chateau de Cheverny. You can buy tickets for the castles ahead of time.

If you are planning a trip to the Loire Valley, you should consider a guided tour. Many tours depart from Tours and Orleans. The best time to visit the Loire Valley is from April to October. You should also make sure you plan your trip ahead of time to get the best prices.

The Loire region is also famous for its vineyards. The region is known for its white and red wines. You can also try some of the local gastronomy. The area has a warm climate and is considered to be one of the best wine regions in the world.

Accommodation: Where To Stay In The Loire Valley

9. Reims

Located in the Champagne region of France, Reims is a small city that is bursting with things to see and do. Whether you are interested in fine dining, museums, nightlife, parks, or local arts, you'll find it all here. There are also numerous winemakers who are happy to welcome visitors into their vineyards outside the city.

One of the top attractions in Reims is the Reims Cathedral as it has a stunning architecture. Another impressive site is the Gallo-Roman Cryptoporticus. This site was once a Roman covered market, which was reconstructed. You'll find reconstructions of ancient Roman scenes and documents here. Also, this site is where the Second World War surrender agreement took place.

Another must-see is the Palace of Tau. This was once the site of the Archbishop's residence. In the past, the French kings would hold post-coronation banquets here.

The Automobile Museum of Reims is also worth a visit. This museum showcases over 200 cars from 1908 to present, including the last remaining French models. It also provides information on driving classic cars. Another impressive sight is the La Porte de Mars or the Champe de Mars, a Roman triumph arch that was carved with scenes of Romulus and Remus and the agrarian landscape.

Accommodation: Best Places To Stay In Reims

Recommended reading: Best Things To Do In Strasbourg

10. Lille

Located in the northern French province of Hauts-de-France, Lille is a vibrant and cultural city to visit. The area has some spectacular sites and several interesting museums. Whether you're visiting in the summer or the winter, you'll find plenty to do.

The Palais des Beaux-Arts is a museum that features some of the finest art pieces in France. There are more than 650 paintings, sculptures and ceramics, including the iconic bronze statue of Napoleon I in imperial costume. You can also catch a classical concert or ballet performance at the Palais.

Another museum is the La Piscine, a former swimming pool which has been restored and has an interesting exhibit. It features a collection of artefacts, including a display of industrial artifacts.

There is a lot to see in Lille, but it's easy to find the attractions on foot. The best way to explore the city is on a walking tour. The most popular attractions are located in the historic centre, where you'll find a variety of shops, boutiques and restaurants.

One of the most impressive buildings in Lille is the Notre Dame de la Treille, a gothic cathedral. The interior features intricate carvings and stained glass windows.

Accommodation: Where To Stay In Lille

Recommended reading: Best Things To Do In Lille

11. Bordeaux

One of France's most beautiful villages, located on the Garonne River in the southwest of France, the Bordeaux region is a popular tourist destination. The village is rich in architectural treasures, museums, and culture. In fact, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Visiting Bordeaux is like taking a tour of a rich history of European art.

Bordeaux is the second-largest Atlantic port within France. Its quays are lined with elegant 18th-century buildings. Many of the structures date from the Age of Enlightenment. Its waterfront is also home to several historical buildings.

Bordeaux's cathedral is a must-see for architecture buffs. This cathedral has survived the test of time, and its tower is one of the most impressive structures in Bordeaux. It features a 360-degree view of the city.

One of the city's best-known squares is the Place de la Bourse. This square is a great place to relax, get some fresh air, and enjoy a snack at one of the cafes. Its center is a large fountain called the Three Graces.

Bordeaux is also home to the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, a museum that houses an impressive collection of decorative arts and art objects. Its collection spans from the15th to the 20th centuries, and features works by Picasso and Titian.

Accommodation: Best Places To Stay In Bordeaux

Recommended reading: Best Things To Do In Bordeaux

12. Marseille

Located on the southeast coast of France, Marseille has been a maritime center for thousands of years, and. It is the second largest city in France with a population of 860,000.

There is a great choice of museums to visit in Marseille. These include the Museum of the Docks Romains, which features a site from the Roman commercial warehouse.

The Palais Longchamp is also one of the top things to do in Marseille for families. It has an observatory, a small Natural History Museum, and botanical gardens. It also features an impressive crescent-shaped colonnade and a fountain.

If you want to see some of the best street art, try the Cours Julien. This area has been on the rise over the past decade. The area is full of graffiti artists, so it's a great spot to take photos.

This city has a unique combination of big city swagger and fishing-village sociability. Its architecture is full of historic buildings that can be seen by taking a guided free tour which is available in English.

Accommodation: Where To Stay In Marseille

Recommended reading: Best Things To Do In Marseille

13. Avignon

Located in the heart of the Provence region, Avignon is an exciting place to explore and a beautiful village. Whether you are looking for museums, historical statues, or outdoor activities, there is plenty to see in Avignon.

One of the most famous medieval monuments in Avignon is the Palais des Papes. The palace is one of the largest medieval gothic buildings in the world, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a guided tour of the palace to learn more about its history.

Located nearby the Palais des Papes is the Pont Saint-Benezet. This medieval bridge was originally a wooden bridge, but was later rebuilt in the 13th century. The Pont Saint-Benezet has a special place in French culture.

Avignon is also home to a number of must visit museums, including the Musee Calvet, which focuses on ethnological art from Oceania and Asia. There is also the Musee Angladon, which is devoted to local artists.

The Avignon Festival is a popular artistic spectacle in July. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the celebration. Avignon is also a great place to take a wine tour. The Cote du Rhone wine region is located just north of Avignon, and boasts some of France's finest vineyards.

14. Provence

Provence is a beautiful and a unique region of France which is known for its idyllic villages, vineyards and arid climate. The region has a wide range of activities to enjoy, including kayaking, swimming and hiking. Its quaint and charming villages, which are perched on hill caps, are a highlight of Provence and show you some of the best France has to offer. The landscape of the region is breathtaking and the Provence lavender fields are in bloom during July and August.

Aside from Provence's picturesque villages and natural beauty, it is also home to some of the most beautiful medieval buildings in Europe. The Palais des Papes, which is located in Avignon, is Europe's largest Palace. It was built in the 14th century when the papal court moved from Rome to Avignon, and is home to artwork by Vittore Carpaccio and Sandro Botticelli.

Aix-en-Provence is a beautiful Provencal city that also has plenty of historic sites. It has a vibrant street scene, tree lined boulevards, ornate fountains, and welcoming cafes. Several Roman monuments are also located in Aix-en-Provence, including the Cathedrale Saint-Sauveur, a beautiful architectural marvel.

One of the most popular things to do in Provence is to walk along the Van Gogh Trail. It runs through the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole monastery, which is home to the artist. You will find his paintings, along with other works by Vincent van Gogh, in the museum's Center of Interpretation.

FAQ

Q: What is the most beautiful part of France?

A: One area in France that stands out for its sheer beauty and charm is the Provence. Located in the southeastern region of France, the Provence is known for its rolling hills, lavender fields, and quaint villages. The region boasts some of the most scenic drives in the world and is famous for its stunning sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea.

Q: What are 10 iconic places of France?

A: Eiffel Tower, Paris. Louvre Museum, Paris. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy. Palace of Versailles, Versailles. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris. The French Riviera, Côte d'Azur. Mont Blanc, French Alps. Château de Chambord, Loir-et-Cher. D-Day Landing Beaches, Normandy. The Pont du Gard, Occitanie.

Q: What are the three most important tourism spots in France?

A: Paris, French Riviera and the Mont Saint-Michel.

Q: Where do locals vacation in France?

A: One popular spot among French vacationers is the Loire Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history. Another top destination for locals is the French Alps. Whether skiing in winter or hiking in summer, this majestic mountain range draws crowds from all over France who come to enjoy its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Q: What is the best time to visit France?

A: For those who love warm weather and outdoor activities, the summer months from June to August are ideal. The temperature in France during this time is pleasant with an average high of 25°C. Alternatively, autumn (September to November) is another great season to visit France when temperatures start to cool down but still remain mild around 15-20°C.

Q: What is the best city to visit in France besides Paris?

A: One of the top cities to visit in France besides Paris is Bordeaux. Located in southwestern France along the Garonne River, Bordeaux is known for its stunning 18th-century architecture and world-renowned wine production.

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