Things to do in France – 25 attractions and experiences

Text and photo: Helena Bergström

What to see and do in France? The country is one of Europe's most diverse travel destinations, where you can combine gastronomy, wine, culture, nature and swimming. Whether you are attracted by charming villages, vibrant cities or dramatic landscapes, there are plenty of experiences to choose from. Here we have collected our best tips for a trip through France.

Things to do in France

We have traveled around in France on several occasions, both on shorter trips and longer road trips. Not least, we have traveled for a long time in France with our camper! The variations between the regions are great, which means that you can experience something completely new every time you travel here.

25 things to see and do in France

From big cities to nature experiences – here you will find a list of 25 things to do in France.

1. Experience Paris

Paris is an iconic capital, which I visited as a young man. Here you can experience sights such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame, but also enjoy café life and shopping. Perhaps you want to stroll along the Seine or discover charming neighborhoods such as Montmartre. The city is just as suitable for a romantic weekend as for a cultural trip.

2. Tourists on the French Riviera

The French Riviera (Côte d'Azur) attracts with its glamour, beaches and lively nightlife. It is home to well-known cities such as Nice, Cannes and Saint-Tropez, and you can combine swimming with shopping and restaurant visits.

There are plenty of flashy luxury yachts to check out, but also charming outdoor cafes in historic alleys. You can also take a boat trip to The Lerin Islands outside Cannes.

3. Visit vineyards in Burgundy

Burgundy is one of the world's most prestigious wine regions and a must-see for wine lovers, producing some of the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.

You can visit small family-run wineries or larger producers for tastings. Don't miss the towns either Beaune and Dijon, where you can experience history, food, mustard and wine.

READ MORE: Burgundy wine regions - our experiences and tips

4. Explore Bordeaux

Bordeaux is both a city and a world-class wine region. Here you can combine city life with visits to some of the world's most famous wine chateaux. The city center is elegant and full of restaurants and wine bars. Don't miss out on tasting local wines on site.

READ MORE: 14 things to do in Bordeaux – France's wine city

5. Vacation in Corsica

Corsica offers a unique combination of mountains and beaches. Here you can hike in dramatic landscapes or relax by crystal clear waters. The island also has its own culture and cuisine. It is a perfect destination for both adventure and relaxation.

READ MORE: Travelling to Corsica - guides, reports and tips

6. Hike in the Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon is one of Europe's most spectacular gorges, and is sometimes called "Europe's Grand Canyon". The turquoise water and towering rock formations create dramatic views. Here you can hike, kayak or just enjoy the view from various viewpoints. The area is especially popular during the summer.

7. Climb the Dune du Pilat

Dune du Pilat is Europe's highest sand dune and an impressive natural experience. From the top you get a sweeping view of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding forests. This place, which you can find on the coast outside Bordeaux, is a popular destination, especially in the summer.

8. Discover Colmar

Colmar is one of the most picturesque towns in France. This charming half-timbered town is located along the Alsace wine route and is a popular tourist destination. There are plenty of outdoor cafes and boat trips here – and in December there is a cozy Christmas market.

9. See the lavender fields of Provence

Provence is known for its lavender fields and its light. The region offers charming villages, markets and vineyards. Here you can drive between small towns and enjoy the scenery. It is especially beautiful in the summer.

10. Go skiing in the Alps

France has some of the best ski areas in Europe. In the French Alps you large systems that suit both beginners and experienced skiers. Destinations such as Chamonix and Val d'Isère are very popular. In addition to skiing, there are spas, restaurants and après-ski.

11. Take a river cruise in Burgundy

Gliding along the canals of Burgundy is a wonderfully relaxing experience, which can be combined with the food, wine and history of the region.

You can rent your own canal boat or join an organized cruise. We tried one of the more exclusive options – a personally guided cruise aboard the Grand Victoria.

READ MORE: Exclusive river cruise in Burgundy – Grand Victoria

12. Kayak in Ardèche

Ardèche is known for its wild and dramatic nature. A popular – and fantastic! – way to experience the area is to canoe through the gorges. You can also visit caves and small villages along the way. This is a perfect destination for those who love nature and adventure.

READ MORE: Visiting Ardeche – with a canoe trip at Pont d'Arc

13. Camping in the Gorge du Tarn

The Gorge du Tarn offers one of France’s most beautiful driving routes. Here the road winds through dramatic cliffs and small villages. Stop for hikes, swimming or lunch with a view – or take the opportunity to canoe on the river. There are also plenty of scenic campsites.

READ MORE: Visiting the Gorges du Tarn - a scenic canyon

14. Visit Rocamadour

Rocamadour is a spectacular village that climbs up a steep cliff. The village has long been a holy place and an important pilgrimage destination. Here you can explore churches, stairs and viewpoints. The combination of history and nature makes the place completely unique and well worth a visit.

15. Explore the Padirac Gorge

The Gouffre de Padirac is one of France's most impressive caves. You start by descending into a huge opening in the ground. Then the tour continues by boat on an underground river. Visiting the cave is a different and exciting experience.

READ MORE: Visiting the Gouffre de Padirac – a fascinating cave

16. Visit castles in the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is filled with beautiful castles and historic buildings, many of which are open to the public. Some of the most famous are Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau and Château de Villandry. As a tourist, you can combine castle visits with bike rides along the river. On our bucket list!

17. Explore Normandy

Normandy offers both history and beautiful coastline. Here you can visit the landing beaches from World War II, and other war memorabilia. The region is also known for its cider and cheeses. Another favorite is the charming port town of Honfleur.

18. See Mont Saint Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France's most famous landmarks. The small island with its abbey rises out of the tide on the border between Normandy and Brittany. The site, which is listed as a World Heritage Site on the prestigious UNESCO list, is both historical and visually impressive.

19. Sample drinks in the Champagne region

The Champagne region is home to the world's most famous sparkling wine, champagne. Here you can visit producers and sample different varieties. The region is also beautiful with its vineyards. Perfect for a simply tasty trip!

READ MORE: Champagne facts - 25 things you (might) not know

20. Visit Lyon and the Palais Idéal

Lyon is considered the gastronomic capital of France. There are many restaurants here, ranging from simple bistros to exclusive Michelin-starred restaurants. The city also has a charming old town center, which is worth exploring.

If you have a car, we can also recommend taking a trip to the different attraction. Ideal Palace – a fantastic monument built by a lone postman.

21. Experience Marseille

Marseille is a lively port city, with a slightly raw but charming atmosphere, where many different cultures and traditions meet. You can stroll in the old port or try the local fish soup bouillabaisse.

22. Explore Brittany

Brittany has a dramatic coastline filled with cliffs and lighthouses. There are many historic villages here and the region is also famous for its crêpes and seafood. We can recommend visiting, among other things Cancale (known for oysters), Camaret-sur-Mer (incredibly beautiful) and Concarneau (with a walled city center.

23. Swim naked in Cap d'Agde

Cap d'Agde is a popular seaside resort on the Mediterranean, and part of the resort is home to a huge naturist area. The area is almost like a city, with shops, restaurants, nightclubs, hotels and camping. If you want to sunbathe and swim without clothes – or maybe even do some grocery shopping without clothes – then this is the place for you.

24. Visit the Gold Islands

The Golden Islands offer an idyllic and slightly more low-key alternative to the French Mediterranean coast. The three islands, located just off the coast near Hyères, are actually called Les îles d'Hyères but are often referred to as Les Îles d'Or (the Golden Islands). Each has its own identity:

• Porquerolles – famous for its sandy beaches
• Port-Cros – with exotic national park
• Île du Levant – naturist island

25. Taste French gastronomy

France is known for its food culture and its produce. Try classics like croissants, cheese, wine and regional specialties. Each region has its own dishes and traditions. Eating well is an important part of the trip.

READ MORE: French cuisine - 25 classic dishes you must try

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