BEST OF FRANCE: THINGS TO DO IN FRANCE

Traveling to France offers a rich blend of history, culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes. Regions to visit in France include Paris, Varsailes, Loire Valley, Provence, French Riviera, Normandy, and Bordeaux. Paris is the most popular city to visit in France, with many notable attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Notre-Dame, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur. Palace of Versailles is an extravagant palace with beautiful gardens and the Hall of Mirrors. Loire Valley is best known for grand castles such as the Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, as well as wineries. Provence is best known for it's Lavender Fields, Avignon, and Arles. Visit Cities like Nice, Mannes and Monaco in the French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)  region, which gives off a completely different vibe from the rest of Paris. Normandy is known for historic World War II sites and D Day Beaches and Mont Saint-Michel, a stunning island commune with a medieval abbey. Bordeaux is renowned for some of the world's best wines and Architecture, as it is a UNESCO-listed historic center. 

While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning basic French phrases is appreciated. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like croissants, baguettes, cheese, wine, escargots, and regional specialties. Dress smartly, especially in cities like Paris, as the French tend to dress elegantly. Traveling in France offers an unforgettable experience with its blend of historical treasures, cultural richness, and scenic beauty. 

Transportation

France offers a well-developed and efficient transportation system, making it easy for travelers to get around. TGV High-Speed Trains connect major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Lille at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph). TER serves local routes and connect smaller towns and rural areas. Long-Distance Trains connect cities not served by the TGV, offering a slower but often scenic travel option. Paris Metro  Covers the entire city with 16 lines and over 300 stations. Many cities, including Lyon, Marseille, and Bordeaux, have modern tram systems. Cities have extensive bus networks; tickets can usually be used interchangeably with metro/tram tickets. France has numerous dedicated cycling paths, especially in regions like the Loire Valley and along the Canal du Midi. Paris (Charles de Gaulle and Orly), Nice, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse are major hubs. Air France and budget carriers like easyJet and Ryanair offer domestic flights. Ferries operate to Corsica from mainland cities like Marseille and Nice. Ferries also connect France to the UK, Ireland, and Mediterranean destinations. Consider rail passes like the Eurail or France Rail Pass for unlimited train travel over a set period. Use apps like SNCF, Citymapper, or Google Maps for real-time navigation and schedules.

Paris

Traveling to Paris, the City of Light, offers a blend of historical landmarks, world-class museums, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant neighborhoods. The Eiffel Tower is the iconic symbol of Paris, with observation decks, and is considered a must-visit destination in Paris; visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds, pre-book tickets online. The Lourve Museum is a world-famous museum in Paris, is one the largest, oldest, and grandest museums in the world; the museum is home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and countless other masterpieces. Pre-book tickets and consider a guided tour to avoid long lines. Notre-Dame Cathedral used to be one of the landmark attractions of Paris due to its Stunning Gothic architecture and is widely recognized as a symbol of the city and of France; please note that the Cathedral is currently undergoing restoration, but you can still view the exterior. Champs-Élysées is the famous boulevard that leads the monumental Arc de Triomphe, which you can climb for panoramic views of Paris. Montmartre is an artistic district with a beautiful, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, offering city views; Explore the narrow streets and visit Place du Tertre for local art. Musée d'Orsay houses Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces and is former in the former Gare d'Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station built between 1898 and 1900. 

 Neighborhoods to Explore in Paris include Le Marais, Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Le Canal Saint-Martin. Le Marais features the Jewish Quarter, historic architecture and trendy boutiques; home to attractions such as  Place des Vosges and Musée Picasso. Latin Quarter is a vibrant student area with cafes, bookstores, and the Sorbonne; the top attractions in the Latin Quarter are the Panthéon and Jardin du Luxembourg. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a Chic area with high-end shops and famous cafes; top attractions include Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, and Saint-Sulpice Church. Le Canal Saint-Martin has a trendy, bohemian area with cool bars and cafes; Le Canal Saint-Martin is popular for Canal cruises, relaxing by the water. Try croissants, baguettes, and pastries at local boulangeries, enjoy a coffee at a Parisian sidewalk cafe, or Savor classic French dishes like coq au vin, escargots, and steak frites. Visit markets like Marché d'Aligre and Marché des Enfants Rouges for fresh produce and local delicacies. Paris is also known for is fine dining with its selection of Michelin-starred restaurants for a gourmet treat. 

Versailles

Visiting the Palace of Versailles is a highlight for many travelers to France. The Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture and was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 under Louis XIV until the French Revolution. It is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southwest of Paris. Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces) is the most famous room in the palace, adorned with 357 mirrors. King’s Grand Apartments (Grands Appartements du Roi) is lavishly decorated rooms used for official functions. Queen’s Grand Apartments (Grands Appartements de la Reine) include the Queen's bedchamber. There is also a beautiful 18th-century Opera House (Opéra Royal) located within the Palace Estate. The Gardens of Versailles are also popular, Formal Gardens are designed by André Le Nôtre, featuring geometric patterns, fountains, and sculptures. The Grand Canal is a cross body of water where boating is popular and the Fountains are can't miss, as the musical fountain shows on weekends from April to October. The Estate of Trianon includes three main attractions, the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Queen's Hamlet (Hameau de la Reine). 

To get to the Palace of Versailles from Paris, take the RER C train from central Paris to Versailles Château – Rive Gauche station (about 40 minutes). It's a short walk from there to the palace. Many guided tours from Paris include transportation and skip-the-line tickets.  There are three types of ticket options available, the Passport ticket (access to all areas), the Palace ticket (main palace only), and Garden tickets (for musical fountain shows). It's advisable to book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. The palace is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (closed Mondays), the Gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and Trianon Estate is open from noon to 6:30 PM. Tuesdays and weekends are the busiest days, so arrive at opening time to avoid crowds. Several restaurants and cafes within the palace grounds, such as La Flottille and La Petite Venise. Allocate a full day to explore the palace, gardens, and Trianon Estate. The palace and gardens cover a vast area, so wear comfortable shoes. Visiting Versailles is a journey through French history and royal opulence. 

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, often referred to as the "Garden of France," is renowned for its stunning châteaux, picturesque villages, rolling vineyards, and rich history. A Châteaux is a large French country house or castle, often giving its name to wine made in its neighborhood. The largest château in the Loire Valley, is Château de Chambord, famous for its distinctive French Renaissance architecture and double-helix staircase, possibly designed by Leonardo da Vinci; Plan to spend a few hours exploring the castle and its extensive grounds. Known as the "Ladies' Castle" for the women who influenced its history, Château de Chenonceau spans the River Cher and features beautiful gardens; Visit the gardens and take a boat ride on the river for a unique perspective. Famous for its magnificent Renaissance gardens, Château de Villandry includes decorative vegetable gardens, ornamental flower gardens, and water gardens. Spend time walking through the gardens and enjoying the different themed sections.  A royal residence and the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, whose tomb is in the chapel, Château d'Amboise is a sight to behold; Combine your visit with a trip to Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s last residence, located nearby. A former royal residence with a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical architecture, the Château de Blois is stunning; Don’t miss the sound and light show that runs during the summer evenings.

Villages and Towns to visit in Loire Valley are Amboise, with the Château d'Amboise, Clos Lucé, charming medieval streets, Tours with the Saint-Gatien Cathedral, Basilica of Saint Martin, vibrant markets, and a beautiful old town, Saumur, with Château de Saumur, Cadre Noir equestrian school, and excellent local wines, and Chinon, with Château de Chinon, a medieval fortress, and wine cellars for tastings. The Loire Valley is popular for it's Wineries; regions such as Vouvray, Sancerre, Chinon, and Saumur are notable for their wine production. Take wine tours and tastings at local vineyards. Many châteaux also offer wine tastings. You can take the High-speed trains (TGV) from Paris to Tours or Angers in about an hour. Regional trains also serve the area. Various guided tours are available from Paris and within the Loire Valley. Book accommodations and tickets in advance. Try local specialties such as rillettes, goat cheese (Crottin de Chavignol), and tarte Tatin. Consider purchasing a pass that grants access to multiple châteaux for savings and convenience. The Loire Valley is great for cycling with numerous bike paths connecting the châteaux and towns. The Loire Valley offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking to experience the best of France. 

Provence

Provence, located in the southeastern part of France, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Provence is best known for it's Lavender Fields, with locations in the Valensole Plateau, Sault Plateau, and Luberon Valley. The Best time to visit is from late June to early August; visit the Lavender Museum in Coustellet to learn more about lavender cultivation. Historic Cities to visit in Provence include Marseille,  Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Arles. Marseille is known for its historic Old Port (Vieux-Port) with bustling markets and restraunts. Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde offers panoramic views of Marseille. Le Panier is the oldest neighborhood with narrow, winding streets. Palais des Pape's in Avignon is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. Pont d'Avignon is the famous unfinished bridge in Avignon. Cours Mirabeau is a beautiful tree-lined avenue with cafes and shops in Aix-en-Provence. Saint-Sauveur Cathedral has a mix of architectural styles from different eras and was built on the site of the 1st-century Roman forum of Aix. Arles is famous for it's Roman monuments including the Amphitheather,  theater, and baths are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit sites in Arles that inspired many of Vincent Van Gogh's famous paintings. 

Provence has a few charming villages to see including Gordes, perched on a hilltop, known for its stone buildings and stunning views, Roussillon, famous for its  ochre cliffs and colorful buildings, and Les Baux-de-Provence, a picturesque village with a medieval fortress. Explore Calanques National Park, a series of stunning limestone cliffs and inlets between Marseille and Cassis, perfect for hiking and boat trips. Gorges du Verdon, known as the "Grand Canyon of Europe," offering hiking, kayaking, and spectacular views. Camargue is a unique region with wetlands, wild horses, flamingos, and rice paddies.  Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is the main airport in the region. TGV trains connect Paris to Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille in about 3 hours. Provençal cuisine is rich in flavors with dishes like ratatouille, bouillabaisse (fish stew), and tapenade. Visit local markets like Marché d’Apt, Marché de L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and Marché de Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for fresh produce, cheese, olives, and more.  Provence is famous for its rosé wines. Visit vineyards and wineries for tastings. Provence offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation. 

French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)

The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is a glamorous region along the southeastern coast of France, known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, luxurious resorts, charming villages, and vibrant cultural scene. Nice, Cannes, Monaco, Antibes, Saint-Tropez, and Menton are cities in the French Riviera with their own distinct charm and allure. Promenade des Anglais is a beautiful walkway along the Mediterranean Sea in Nice, Old Town (Vieux Nice) is made up of Narrow streets, colorful buildings, markets, and cafes. Castle Hill (Colline du Château) offers panoramic views of Nice and the coastline. The Matisse Museum and Marc Chagall National Museum are museums worth visiting if you have extra time in Nice. La Crossette is a famous boulevard with luxury hotels, boutiques, and sandy beaches in Cannes. Le Suquet is the old quarter in Cannes with cobblestone streets and views of the harbor.  Two beautiful islands, Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, a short boat ride from Cannes. Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco is an iconic casino and entertainment complex. Visit the Prince's Palace, home to the ruling prince, with daily changing of the guard ceremony. Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is also worth visiting. 

Old Town is the Historic area of Antibes with markets, cafes, and the Picasso Museum. Be sure to visit Port Vauban is one of the largest marinas in Europe, while in Antibes. Cap d'Antibes is a Scenic peninsula with luxury villas and the Garoupe Lighthouse. Pampelonne Beach in Saint-Tropez is famous for its glamorous beach clubs. The Old Port in Saint-Tropez is lined with Yachts, cafes, and Boutiques. Saint-Tropez is known for its vibrant nightlife and exclusive clubs. Menton Old Town has a beautiful historic center with colorful buildings. Provençal and Mediterranean cuisine with fresh seafood, olive oil, and local produce is popular in the French Riviera. Visit markets like Cours Saleya in Nice for local specialties, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Eat in Michelin-star establishments to casual bistros and seaside cafes. The Cannes Film Festival, the Monaco Grand Prix held in May, as well as the Nice Carnival held in February are popular events in the region. Use trains and buses to travel between cities and towns. The coastal train offers scenic views and connects major destinations.  Many beaches are private, and renting a sunbed can be expensive. Public beaches are also available. The French Riviera offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxury. 

Normandy

Normandy, located in the northwestern part of France, is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Mont Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site, this island commune is one of France’s most iconic landmarks; visit during low tide to walk around the island, and stay overnight to see it illuminated. Check tide schedules if you plan to walk around the island or visit the surrounding bay. Rouen Cathedral is a stunning Gothic cathedral painted by Claude Monet. Gros-Horloge is an astronomical clock from the 14th century. Place du Vieux-Marché is the site where Joan of Arc was martyred, with a modern church dedicated to her. The two most popular sites in Honfleur are the Old Port (Vieux Bassin), a picturesque harbor with colorful buildings and seafood restaurants and Saint Catherine’s Church, the largest wooden church in France, built by shipwrights. Rouen Armada is a large gathering of sailing ships, held every five years. Giverny is where Monet’s House and Gardens is located, including the famous water lily pond. Cliffs of Étretat are dramatic white chalk cliffs and natural arches along the coast, popular for hiking and photography.  Bayeux Tapestry, a nearly 70-meter-long embroidered cloth depicting the Norman Conquest of England and the Bayeux Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic cathedral near the tapestry museum are the top attractions to visit in Bayeux. 

D-Day Beaches have long been popular attractions for history enthusiasts; these beaches include Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and Arromanches. Visit the Caen Memorial Museum and the Juno Beach Centre for comprehensive insights into D-Day and World War II. D-Day Commemorations are held annually in June, with ceremonies and reenactments. Deauville is known for its luxury resorts, casino, and annual film festival. Trouville is a charming seaside town with a lively fish market and beautiful beach. Regular train services from Paris to major Normandy cities like Rouen, Caen, and Bayeux. Normandy is famous for its dairy products (cream, butter, cheeses like Camembert), apples (cider and Calvados), and seafood. Try dishes like moules marinières (mussels in white wine), duck à la rouennaise, and tarte Tatin. Visit local markets for fresh produce, cheeses, and seafood. Normandy offers a perfect blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural richness.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, located in the southwest of France, is renowned for its world-class wines, elegant architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.  Bordeaux is divided into several prestigious wine regions, including Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, and Graves. Many châteaux offer tours and tastings. Notable ones include Château Margaux, Château Mouton Rothschild, and Château Latour. An interactive wine museum in Bordeaux city, offering a comprehensive experience of global wine cultures. Book wine tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.  Place de la Bourse is an iconic square with the stunning "Miroir d'Eau" (Water Mirror), the world's largest reflecting pool. Cathédrale Saint-André, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass is the landmark site in Bordeaux. Porte Cailhau is the medieval gate that offers great views over the city. Grosse Cloche is one of the oldest belfries in France, dating back to the 15th century. 

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Musée des Beaux-Arts of Bordeaux houses a fine collection of European paintings from the Renaissance to the 20th century. CAPC Museum of Contemporary Art, located in a former warehouse, features contemporary works. Musée d'Aquitaine offers an extensive history of the Bordeaux region from prehistoric times to the present. Stroll along the Garonne River, enjoying the views and various cafes and restaurants. Jardin Public is a beautiful public park with a small lake, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Try canelés (caramelized custard pastries), entrecôte à la Bordelaise (steak in a red wine sauce), and fresh oysters from nearby Arcachon Bay. Visit Marché des Capucins, the largest market in Bordeaux, for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more. Check specific market days for fresh local produce and specialties. High-speed TGV trains connect Paris to Bordeaux in about 2 hours. Bordeaux offers a perfect blend of historical charm, culinary delights, and world-renowned wines, making it an ideal destination for a memorable French getaway. 

Why Visit France?

Visiting France offers a diverse and enriching experience that appeals to a wide range of interests and tastes. From the prehistoric caves of Lascaux to the grandeur of Versailles, France is a treasure trove of historical sites. There are plenty of world-class and world-renowned museums like the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and countless other museums, France is a haven for art lovers.  France boasts numerous UNESCO sites, including Mont Saint-Michel, the historic center of Avignon, and the Palace of Versailles. France is synonymous with fine dining, offering culinary delights from croissants and baguettes to haute cuisine in Michelin-starred restaurants. With regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, and the Loire Valley, wine enthusiasts can enjoy some of the world's finest wines. From the lavender fields of Provence to the rugged coastlines of Brittany and the majestic Alps, France offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes. The French Riviera, with its glamorous beaches and Mediterranean climate, is perfect for sun-seekers.  The capital city, Paris, is known for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Champs-Élysées, which is a cultural and romantic hub. Picturesque villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence offer a glimpse into traditional French life. Events like the Cannes Film Festival, Avignon Theatre Festival, and the Nice Carnival draw international visitors. Paris is a global fashion capital, offering high-end shopping in areas like Avenue Montaigne and Le Marais. Enjoy luxurious experiences in world-class hotels, spas, and resorts across the country. The D-Day landing beaches in Normandy and other World War I and II sites offer poignant reminders of history. Explore castles, cathedrals, and historic towns that date back centuries. France has an extensive and efficient transportation network, including high-speed TGV trains, regional trains, and well-connected airports. France is a country that captivates with its beauty, history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax in a picturesque setting, France offers something for everyone. Its combination of historic landmarks, natural wonders, and sophisticated urban experiences make it an unparalleled travel destination.