It seems almost impossible to pick the best places to visit in France. In a country with some of the most famous landmarks in the world, how do you narrow down the list?

Don’t worry – we know it’s hard, so we’ve done the research for you so you can just pick your favorites and plan your trip. From some of the world’s best museums to stunning beaches to vineyards and buzzing cities, France really does have something for everybody.

Keep reading for a great selection of the best hiking trails, shorelines, city breaks, and more.

1 – Versailles Palace

Versailles Palace, France

This former royal residence less than 20 km from Paris should be in your list of top places to visit in France. Although the Versailles Palace was originally a small hunting lodge back in the early 1600s, it was soon rebuilt as a chateau and eventually a palace. Between 1682 and 1789, it was also France’s government seat.

The palace is a massive construction of over 2,300 rooms (not all open to the public), surrounded by almost 2000 acres of beautifully manicured gardens.

The Royal Apartments, the Salon of Diana (Louis XIV’s billiards room), the golden private apartments of the King and Queen, and the stunning Hall of Mirrors are all must-sees inside the palace.

Check out the different Versailles tickets price to make sure the areas you want to visit are included. For a more personalized experience, you can opt for one of the best Versailles tours.

2 – Provence

Provence, France

Provence is famous for its sunny weather, medieval towns, and truly great food.
Nothing says Provence more than lavender, though. 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.

Villages in the Luberon and Verdon regions are popular destinations as a jumpstart point for exploring local lavender fields, but these charming hill-towns (and especially Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Roussillon, and Gordes) are also very photogenic and filled with weekend markets and theater festivals.

For old architecture and picturesque little streets, Avignon is hard to beat. Explore stone bridges, walk under ancient stone archways and discover hidden parks and gardens.

Most popular lavender fields tours start from Nice, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille.

Read more: Fun things to do in Aix-en-Provence

3 – Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel, France

One of the best Normandy tours from Paris is a trip to Mont Saint Michel, a tidal island off the coast of Normandy. During low tide, it’s 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. There’s also no way to get in or out of the island during high tide.

In fact, there’s only one main road on the island, which goes through a tiny village (where you can grab a bite to eat and some souvenirs) and then up towards the Gothic-style Benedictine abbey complex.

Not only is the island one of the best places to visit in Normandy, but also one of the most unique. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and its bay are a photographer’s dream.

4 – Loire Valley castles

Loire Valley castles, France — Château de Chenonceau

The Loire Valley has the densest concentration of castles in France – over 300 of them, including ruins, small fortresses, and beautifully preserved chateaux.

Some of the best Loire Valley castles to visit include the Chateau de Chambord and the Chateau de Chenonceau. The Château de Chambord is considered the king of all the castles here. Built in the early 16th century, it’s a stunning French Renaissance structure is elaborated, home to a very unique double-spiral staircase, and open for tours. The privately owned Chateau de Chenonceau is the second most visited chateau in the country, after the Palace of Versailles.

Other must-see castles in the valley include the 16th-century Château de Chenonceau (built on a bridge crossing the River Cher), the very Disney-like Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, and the stunning Château of Amboise, which started life as a fortress.

5 – Paris

Paris, France

With so many things to do in Paris, it’s hard to pick just a few favorite ones. 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? check the best museums in Paris), the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre-Dame cathedral. Once you’ve visited the best Paris attractions, however, there’s still much more to see.

Paris’ romantic and cultural atmosphere, its great café culture and high-quality gastronomy all add up to its charm as well. You’ll find farmer’s markets sitting next door to Michelin-starred restaurants, and great flea markets sharing the spotlights with big names like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior.

6 – Calanques

Calanques, France

The Calanques of Marseille are a series of limestone cliffs sitting right on the sea. They form a beautiful backdrop to small hidden beaches and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sea. They are the main attraction at the Calanques National Park, a protected area that covers 520 square kilometers of both land and sea.

Although many come here to sunbathe and enjoy the beach or try kayaking, exploring the Calanques on foot is the best way to discover its magic. There are easier and more challenging hikes here, with some of the best trails located in Marseilleveyre Massif, where amazing views will reward you after steep and heart-stopping walks.

7 – Champagne

Champagne, France

Champagne day trips from Paris are ideal to discover the fantastic history of this region. The world’s most famous sparkling wine comes from the region of the same name, located not far from Paris and perfect as a day trip to remember.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its cellars and hillsides, Champagne has more than drinks to offer – though you should definitely try the Champagne route while there, which stretches over 70 km across charming towns and pasts historical monasteries and châteaux.

The region is also home to Roman ruins, Europe’s biggest fortified castle, and the High Gothic Reims cathedral, the coronation site of 25 French kings.

8 – Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez, France

No other place in France says glamour like Saint-Tropez. The most famous (and expensive) place to visit on the French Riviera, Saint-Tropez is the perfect destination to enjoy exclusive beach clubs, see massive yachts, and cross paths with the rich and famous.

Move away from the beach and you’ll also get to experience the old-world ambiance that makes this place unique, complete with the historic Vieux Port and harbor, typical Provençal market squares, olive groves, and cobblestone streets.

Lively and busy during the summer months, Saint Tropez is a great culinary destination as well as a great place to enjoy the nightlife.

9 – Orléans

Orléans, France

Orléans was where young Joan d’Arc helped lead the army that defeated the English and broke their siege on the city. It was also the place where she was captured and put on trial. Today, her memory is alive in many places around the city, including a museum in her honor and the Joan of Arc Center created in the home where she once lived.

Every spring, a festival in her honor takes over the streets with special reenactments and attractions.

While here, visit Les Halles-Chatelet for all your shopping needs and stop by the Place du Martroi square to see Joan d’Arc’s bronze statue. The 17th-century Cathedral of Saint Croix and the Chateau de Chambord just outside the city are also beautiful places worth a visit.

10 – Arras

Arras, France

Located in Northern France, historic Arras is a destination filled with chateaus, the spectacular Grand’ Place and des Héros (two ancient marque squares surrounded by shops and restaurants), and Flemish-Baroque architecture.

Arras was a major battle site during WWI – this lead to heavy damage in the city and left behind a number of landmarks that continue to tell that story. The Carrière Wellington museum – created in the underground quarry tunnels used by soldiers to move and hide during war – is located 22 meters underground and it’s a must-see.

The World War I British Cemetery is worth visiting, and so is the 17th century Vauban Citadel now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11 – Saint Emilion

Saint Emilion, France

The Romans were already producing wine around Saint Emilion in the 3rd century BC, and that tradition continues today. World-famous red wine wineries and chances to tour beautiful vineyards are the main reasons to visit, but not the only ones.

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.

Back up on the ground, enjoy exploring the local markets (wine, cheese, and traditional local macaroons will be available), hike the village surroundings, and walk out to the foot of the bell tower for amazing views over the town.

12 – Lille

Lille, France

Located just a few kilometers from the border with Belgium, Lille has strong Flemish roots. This is quite obvious in the architecture of the city, especially around the main square.

La Vieille Bourse (Old Stock Exchange) and the Palais des Beaux-Arts are both worth a visit to see some art, people-watch, and find some book treasures. If you’re visiting in September, don’t miss out La Braderie, Europe’s largest flea market in Europe with over 10000 sellers offering everything from antiques and collectibles to clothing, home décor, and great food.

Lille is also the birthplace of General Charles de Gaulle, who led France in the fight against Nazi Germany in WWII. His childhood home in Lille is now a museum.

13 – Nice

Nice, France

Located right on the French Riviera, Nice is the place to visit for sunny weather, blue waters, and golden sands.

Simply stroll the length of Promenade des Anglais for a chance to enjoy the beach or take a break for ice cream, coffee or a meal.

If you’re visiting in February or March, one of the best things to do in Nice includes experiencing the Carnival for amazing parades, special events, and parties that go on till early morning.

Some of the best day trips from Nice include Monaco (less than 30 minutes away), St-Paul de Vence for hilltop views and great art, and charming Antibes.

14 – Colmar

Colmar, France

Visiting Colmar is like stepping right into a fairytale town. With cobbled streets, half-timbered medieval buildings illuminated with hanging lamps, and canals flowing everywhere, it’s no surprise that Colmar is supposed to be the town that inspired the village in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

In addition to its historical streets, the town is famous for its museums, which include the Unterlinden Museum (dedicated to local history and housed in a beautiful former convent) and Musee du Jouet (a toy museum). Colmar is also part of the Alsace wine region, famous for its white wines.

15 – Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris, France

Looking for the best places to visit in France with kids?

Disneyland Paris is a two-park complex (Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios) covering an impressive 4,800 acres. Located just 20 km outside Paris, the complex also hosts seven Disney hotels, a golf course, and a shopping and dining area known as Disney Village.

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.

Walt Disney Studios Park celebrates films and show business, offering an insight into the world of Disney and Pixar’s animated characters.

For cheap Disneyland Paris tickets, always book in advance. You’ll save money and can get access to extras like skip-the-line benefits.

16 – Pyrenees

Pyrenees, France

Sitting right on the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees mountain range is an inspiring natural destination. From snow-covered mountains to Alpine forests and glacial lakes to dramatic peaks and valleys, this is a destination that has it all.

Alpine skiing and climbing are both popular here, and so are hiking and bicycling. Parts of the Tour de France race crisscross through the Pyrenees. For those who want to go the distance, there are special trails here.

The famous Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne footpath is not for the faint of heart – it is 800 km long with an elevation change of 52,000 meters. To walk it from beginning to end, you would need at least 45 days.

17 – Annecy

Annecy, France

Located just 35 km from Geneva, Switzerland, Annecy is a city shaped by water. In addition to being known as “the Venice of the Alps” for the beautiful canals cutting through the city, there’s also a river and lakes in the area.

An island in River Thiou is home to Palais de l’Isle – once a prison and today a museum dedicated to local history. Visitors should also stop by the Château d’Annecy, a restored castle that serves as a museum and offers great views over the city.

18 – Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, France

Perched on top of a hill above the Upper Rhine Plain, this 12th-century chateau is a must-see.

You don’t even have to step inside the courtyard to admire its beauty – just follow the path up the hill around the outer wall, past drawbridges and cannons, to reach a lookout point over the Black Forest. If you do step inside the castle, the best views are from the guard tower.

Guided tours are available, but you can also rent an audio guide and explore on your own. Visit the trophy room, the empress’s bed chamber, and the king’s bedroom.

19 – Dune du Pilat

Dune du Pilat, France

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. At just under 3km long and 500 meters wide – but growing every year – it is certainly impressive.

The dune is currently about 106 meters high and can be climbed. Not an easy task but the amazing views over the Atlantic Ocean from the top are worth the effort. There’s even a staircase if walking uphill on the sand proves too challenging – though we encourage you to give sand walking a try to truly experience the dune in all its glory!

There’s a restaurant nearby and a massive forest just steps away perfect for some hiking if you’re up for it.

20 – Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon, France

Looking for the best places to visit for nature lovers? A river canyon with turquoise-green waters, the Verdon Gorge is a popular destination for kayaking, remote beaches, and great hiking.

At about 25 km in length and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, the gorge offers plenty of multi-pitch climbing routes, some as high as 400 meters.

Reaching the gorge can be tricky, as you need a car. But if you’re up for renting one, it’s an easy two-hour drive from the French Riviera. If you’re up for hiking around, the viewpoints are breathtaking, but be ready for some tough ascents.

21 – Bayonne

Bayonne, France

This Basque-French city is Bayonne is famous for two very different things: its chocolate and for being the birthplace of the bayonet. You can catch up on the history of the second one in the local museum before heading to Bayonne Chocolate Street (yes, that’s a real thing) to try chocolate that’s still made using a 17th-century recipe.

The beautiful 13th-century cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and its cloisters are also worth a visit. The oldest part of the city, Grand Bayonne, offers great shopping, while Petit Bayonne has museums and lively bars to offer.

The Fêtes de Bayonne festival in August attracts visitors from all over France.

22 – Giverny

Giverny, France

A day trip to Giverny from Paris is a great way to discover this charming village. Once home to impressionist painter Claude Monet, the village now attracts art lovers who want to explore the home and gardens where he lived for over 40 years. Monet’s series of water lilies oil paintings were inspired by the flowers in his own pond.

The town’s Museum of Impressionism Giverny is a great place to learn more about Monet’s work (as well as the work of other Impressionists). The old Hôtel Baudy – now a cafe and restaurant – used to be the meeting place for artists like Cézanne and Rodin and is worth a stop as well.

Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Europe

23 – Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France

The port city of Bordeaux is often referred to as the “world capital of wine.” With one of the world’s largest wine festivals (Vinexpro), hillsides covered in vineyards, and wineries offering great tastings, it’s no surprise wine is one of the main reasons visitors come here.

But Bordeaux is also home to over 300 historical monuments and landmarks, including the 1700s Place de la Bourse, the opera house Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, and a number of Roman ruins.

Other things to do in Bordeaux include biking along the Garonne river, visiting the La Base Sous-Marine art venue, and stopping by Cité du Vin, the world’s largest wine museum.

24 – Rouen

Rouen, France

Located right on the River Seine, the city of Rouen is attached to many historical names. French novelist Gustave Flaubert (who wrote Madame Bovary) was born in Rouen, and Claude Monet rented a studio here in 1892 to create a series of paintings of the Rouen Cathedral. Joan of Arc was burned at the stake on the streets of Rouen and there’s now both a museum and a church dedicated to her story here.

The city also has a world-class art museum, an astronomical clock that dates back to the 14th century, and a beautiful Old Market Square built on the spot were Joan of Arc died.
There’s also Vieux Rouen, an ancient road dating back to the 1200s where you can still see timber-framed houses,.

25 – Antibes

Antibes, France

Located between Cannes and Nice, Antibes offers amazing seaside and great beach resorts that are more laid back and affordable than its neighbors. Plage de la Gravette (Antibes’ most popular) urban beach, Plage de la Salis and Plage du Ponteil are all equally beautiful.

The historic town of Antibes also boasts centuries-old castles and forts either right in town or within minutes. A former chateau, Musée Picasso once served as Piccaso’s own studio.

Another must-do here includes visiting the La Marche Provençal market to pick up fresh food, jams or other food souvenirs while listening to live music.

26 – Lyon

Lyon, France

Considered France’s gastronomical capital, Lyon is a great destination to try a mix of Michelin-starred restaurants and bouchon, a unique type of establishment serving lunch.

Lyon is filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including a number of Roman ruins. These include two amphitheaters, which in summer are often used for performances and live concerts. Nearby, the Musée Gallo-Romain holds artifacts that retell the story of the Roman civilization in Lyon.

Other things to do in Lyon include visiting great museums like the Museum of Movies and Miniatures, the Petit Musée du Guignol (dedicated to puppets), and the Musée Lumière, dedicated to photography.

27 – La Rochelle

La Rochelle, France

La Rochelle is a historic port town on the Bay of Biscay. The town’s 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.

This lively destination has also plenty to offer in the form of a maritime museum, summer festivals, and even three urban beaches – La Concurrence beach is right in town, so you won’t have to travel far to bury your toes in the sand.

The local state-of-the-art Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and home to over 12,000 marine animals. Don’t miss our complete guide about the top fun things to do in La Rochelle.

28 – Porquerolles

Porquerolles, France

This secluded island might be small (just 7km long by 3km wide) but it sure packs up the attractions. Porquerolles beaches are small but it will feel a bit like a tropical escape to walk the shoreline and dip your toes in the turquoise waters. Plage Notre Dame, perhaps the most beautiful of the beaches here, is a 40-minute bike ride away from the main village.

Back in town, head to 1600s Fort du Grand Langoustier or 1500s Fort Sainte Agathe for great views over the bay. Then have a seafood lunch near the water or try snorkeling if you’re visiting during the summer.

29 – Futuroscope

Futuroscope, France

A unique high-tech amusement park, Futuroscope features lots of technology, visual effects, and lots of 3D and 4D rides. In total, 25 experiences (a combination of rides, live shows and activities) aimed at both children and adults.

Some of the most popular attractions here include the Gyrotour, which lifts you 45 meters into the air for great views over the park and the surroundings, and The Time Machine, an immersive travel-back-in-time experience with 3D images on a moving platform.

There’s also Virus Attack, where a simulator ride sends you inside the human body to fight a virus. When you’re ready for a break, head to the Aerobar, which airlifts you 35 meters up into the sky for a drink and snack break like no other.

30 – Saint Malo

Saint Malo, France

A historic port once visited by pirates, Saint Malo was also extremely damaged by bombing during WWII. It took the French 12 years to rebuild it stone by stone.

The must-see place here is the walled ramparts that run along the length of the city and offer stunning views over the sea. Then head into town and look for the La Cour La Hussaye turret, visit the 12th-century Saint-Malo Cathedral, and walk the ancient cobblestone streets.

Saint-Malo has plenty of beautiful beaches as well. There’s Plage de Mihinic to catch the sunset, quiet and rocky Plage de l’Eventail, and Plage de Bon Secours with a seawater pool.

31 – Angers

Angers, France

Angers sits in the heart of the Loire Valley, famous for its wines and its many museums, castles, and chateaus. In fact, the Château d’Angers, originally built in the 9th century, is one of the town’s most important attractions.

It can be toured inside and out, but the star of the chateau is a large medieval set of tapestries measuring 140 meters long and featuring scenes from the Bible’s Book of Revelations.

Angers’ fine arts museum, the Musée 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.

32 – French Alps

French Alps, France

The French section of the Alps is a popular destination in both winter and summer. If you’re looking for a place to jump into adventure and thrills outdoors, this is it. The French Alps have it off – great skiing, mountain biking, lots of hiking trails, and even paragliding.

The skiing is hard to beat, with over 1,000 slopes – Les Trois Vallées region alone has 338 slopes and over 600km of pistes. 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.

33 – Arcachon Bay

Arcachon Bay, France

With over 150 square meters of space to explore, it’s fair to say you won’t get bored here. Some of the most popular coastal towns are in this area, and you’ll find plenty of beaches, promenades, and seafood restaurants around.

Arcachon Bay is where the famous giant Dune du Pilat is located, so if you’re already visiting to climb the sand dune, it’s worth staying longer to explore the area. The main town around the bay is Arcachon itself, close to the dune and with a beautiful historic town center.

Many charming villages surround the bay, including Andernos les Bains, home to the longest pier in the country and great festivals year-round.

34 – Deauville

Deauville, France

The seaside resort of Deauville has a mild climate year-round, which means its beautiful 2.4km long stretch of golden beach is worth visiting even in winter. Rent an umbrella or bring your own towel and sat down on the sand. Either way, this is a great place to relax, sunbathe or go for a swim.

While here, tour the Villa Strassburger once owned by French writer Gustave Flaubert, walk the long boardwalk, or go shopping for great antiques and vintage decor. Or, if you’re here in August, you can catch a match at the Deauville International Polo Club.

35 – Lourdes

Lourdes, France

Lourdes is one of the world’s most popular pilgrimage places, with thousands of believers arriving at the religious sites every year. The Sanctuary of Lourdes, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, and the “holy water” spring at the Grotto of Massabielle are the main stops.

Catch the Funiculaire du Pic du Jer up a hill for a unique view over Lourdes, visit the Pyrenean Museum for indoor and outdoor exhibits (including models of Pyrenean houses) and stop by the 1,000-year-old Château-Fort De Lourdes.

36 – Toulouse

Toulouse, France

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.

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. But the colorful city also has plenty of buildings painted in blues, violets, and oranges, making for a charming, lively view as you walk its winding streets.

The city is home to over 160 parks, a great destination for food lovers, and filled with architectural heritage and cultural attractions. Plus beaches, mountains and vineyards are all within a few hours from the city.

37 – Corsica

Corsica, France

Great weather, plenty of sunshine, and over 1,000km of golden, sandy coastline are just some of the reasons to visit Corsica.

There are no shortage of fun things to do in Corsica for adventure seekers.

Located close to the Italian island of Sardina, Corsica is all about the outdoors. You’ll have a choice of over 150 beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, stunning views from green hilltops, and the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse, home to many endangered species.

Don’t miss Ajaccio Port, from where some of the best boat trips in Corsica depart. Ajaccio is also the birthplace of Napoleon (you can visit a museum dedicated to him here).

Corsica produces its own wines as well, so make sure you try some too.

38 – Etretat Cliffs

Etretat Cliffs, France

The chalk cliffs of Etretat, some of which are 90 meters high, are a great destination of unique rock formations in the Normandy region. A striking sight serving as background to beautiful sandy beaches, the cliffs offer lots of opportunities for hiking and photography.

Not only can you walk down to the beach for great views of the massive cliffs towering over you, but it’s also possible to hike the tops of the cliffs. Arrive at either sunset or sunrise for even more stunning photos, especially of the three massive stone arches over the water.

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.

39 – Cannes

Cannes, France

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a food lover, or an outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of fun things to do in Cannes.

Most famous for hosting the Cannes Film Festival, Cannes is also a hot destination for the rich and famous. Visitors come here for the Michelin-star restaurants, the luxury hotels, and the high-end parties that attract A-listers.

You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy Cannes, though. There are plenty of beaches to visit here (many public, which means free), so you can get plenty of sun and sea without breaking the bank. La Croisette promenade is flanked by golden sands on one side and luxury fashion shops on the other – a great place to be even if you’re just window shopping.

In town, stop by the Le Marché Forville food market to grab some cheese, snacks or flowers.

40 – Marseille

Marseille, France

Marseille is France’s oldest city, so expect to find amazing architecture when visiting. A good example is the 19th-century Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, which sits on a hill and offers amazing views over the city.

With hot, sunny weather and not much rain during the year, it’s no surprise that Marseille’s beaches are a top attraction. The Plage des Catalans (main city in town) and the Plage du Prophète, filled with activities. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for sailing and windsurfing on the shoreline too.

If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Marseilles, you can visit the Parc Longchamp, the Palais du Pharo, or the Marseille Provence Aquarium – where you can admire over 4,000 marine creatures from the Mediterranean and beyond.

Great day trips from Marseille include a visit to the Parc National des Calanques for some swimming in beautiful beaches, a stop in Avignon to discover its many cultural delights, or an escape to Niece to experience the French Riviera in all its splendor.

41 – Burgundy

Burgundy, France

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.

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 Mâcon will take you to many great ones.

But the Burgundy region is also home to many other attractions worth exploring. Head to the Morvan National Park for white-water rafting, go on a truffle hunt, visit the Renaissance Château d’Ancy-le-Franc, and try one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants around.

42 – Biarritz

Biarritz, France

For a small town, Biarritz has a lot to offer. Located on the Bay of Biscay close to the border with Spain, it offers great golden beaches, lots of sun, and perfect surfing conditions.

Lots of great golf courses, health spas, and renowned Basque cuisine also attract visitors looking to relax and recharge surrounded by breathtaking ocean views.

Biarritz has plenty of historical and cultural attractions as well, including an innovative oceanographic museum, a Musée du Chocolat, and the Hotel du Palais, which was once the summer palace for Emperor Napoleon III’s wife Eugénie.

43 – Strasbourg

Strasbourg, France

Once part of the German Empire (which explains the city’s German name), Strasbourg has been part of France since the end of WWI.

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.

There’s also the Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Strasbourg, Europe’s tallest medieval building (the spire reaches 142 meters high), and La Petite France area, a historic quarter with beautiful canals cutting through it.

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.

Looking for more ideas? Check out list of fun things to do in Strasbourg.

44 – Dordogne

Dordogne, France

Considered France’s black truffle capital, the Dordogne region is worth visiting even if it’s just for its amazing food. The area is a major wine producer and also famous for its great walnuts and jams. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from your visit, stop by a local food market to grab some goodies.

In addition to food, the Dordogne region is also popular for its great outdoors, which includes everything from picturesque hiking trails to beautiful gorges to flowering meadows. Cliff-top villages like Beynac-et-Cazenac pack on the charm, and there are castles and medieval towns to keep you busy for days.

45 – Carcassone

Carcassone, France

The medieval city of Carcassone is most famous for its UNESCO World Heritage fortified citadel surrounded by Gallo-Roman walls. The massive fortress has 52 towers and the citadel itself contains many landmarks worth visiting, including the Basilique St Nazaire with its stunning stained-glass windows and the narrow cobblestone streets of the tiltyard.

Don’t miss a walk on the 1.2 km long inner walls, the Comtal Castle (which looks like a Disney castle), and the 14th-century Pont Vieux of Carcassonne (Carcassonne Old Bridge), which offers the best photo opportunities and views against the citadel.

46 – Honfleur

Honfleur, France

Located in the heart of Normandy, Honfleur is a charming town filled with half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and a beautiful old port (Le Vieux Bassin) that’s been used for over 2,500 years.

The 15th-century Saint Catherine’s Church is one of the main landmarks here, but visitors should also stop by the cable-stayed Normandy bridge, and the Eugène Boudin museum, dedicated to the famous local painter. There are also plenty of art galleries and great restaurants to explore as well.

47 – Nantes

Nantes, France

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 l’île (Island of machines), a theme park that features machines inspired by his work. These include a giant mechanical elephant you can ride and a three-level carousel.

The 13th-century The Chateau Des Ducs De Bretagne (and the local history museum inside it) is another must-see, and so is the Old Town center with medieval half-timbered houses. Nantes also has a great art scene and is just steps away from the coast and beautiful beaches.

Don’t miss our selection of fun things to do in Nantes.

48 – Avignon

Avignon, France

Avignon is mainly known for its significant historical heritage. 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.

Today, you can visit Le Palais des Papes, the massive 15,000 square meters fortress they called home for many decades. If you visit in July, don’t miss out the International Theater Festival set inside the palace.

Many structures in Avignon have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the palace, the Petit Palais museum, the Cathedral des Doms, and the Avignon bridge.

49 – Glénan Archipelago

Glénan Archipelago, France

A string of nine islands and many tiny islets, the Glénan Archipelago is located off the coast in Brittany’s South Finistère. As you might expect, it’s filled with stunning white sandy beaches turquoise waters that are popular with divers and filled with seabirds and beautiful nature.

A perfect place to try water sports, swim with the harmless basking sharks, and explore the five-kilometer long Mer Blanche dune. The fort on Stork Island is worth a visit, and Saint Nicholas island access to ruins and lots of quiet sandy beaches.

50 – Overseas France

French Polynesia, France

Feel like jetting off away to the Caribbean or Indian ocean? France has plenty of overseas territories filled with lush vegetation, tropical beaches, and breathtaking views.

French Polynesia is made up of 118 islands including Tahiti with its volcanic black sand beaches and some of the best surfing you’ll find in the area. Looking for adventure and excitement? There are plenty of things to do in Bora Bora in addition to enjoying its stunning lagoons and marina life.

In the Caribbean Sea, the French islands of Martinique, Saint Martin, and Guadeloupe are the most visited. Martinique in particular is famous for its rich Creole cuisine, cultural heritage, and stunning beaches. In the Indian Ocean, Reunion island and Mayotte are two other beautiful tropical destinations.

Final Thoughts

Hope you’ve enjoyed our list of some of the most amazing places to visit in France. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a couple of weeks, you’ll find plenty of ideas here to help you plan your trip.

Have you visited any of these places or have something else to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

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50 Best Places to Visit in France