18 Best Things to Do in France: Experiences You Should Not Miss
Top activities in France range from watching sunsets at the Eiffel Tower and viewing art at the Louvre to tasting wines in Bordeaux and exploring Mont-Saint-Michel. This guide details 18 essential experiences, including expected costs, time requirements, booking windows, and transit options.
France is a great place to visit because it has a mix of amazing food, deep history, and beautiful scenery. Whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, or with your whole family, there is something here for everyone.
You can enjoy a wide variety of experiences, from castle tours to wine tastings. This guide outlines 18 essential activities in France for tourists on your trip.
If you are a first-time visitor, seeing a sunset at the Eiffel Tower is a great start. This blog covers the best things to do in France.
Best Things to Do in France at a Glance
Note: Price scales ranges from budget-friendly ($) to luxury ($$$). Actual expenses in France will be in Euros (€).
18 Best Things to Do in France
1. Eiffel Tower Sunset
It is one of the most iconic things to see in France, offering beautiful panoramic views that capture the romantic essence of Paris as dusk falls.
What to do:
- Take the summit elevator
- Drink champagne at the top
- Watch it sparkle from Trocadéro
How long do you need: 2–3 hours
Best time to visit: One hour before sunset
Cost: Paid (€14 – €35)
Booking: Buy tickets online two months ahead
Getting there: Take Metro Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim or Line 9 to Trocadéro.
Insider tip: Book before dusk to see both day and night views.
2. Louvre Museum
This massive cultural landmark stands out among the most famous things in France, housing thousands of legendary art masterpieces that you must explore.
What to do:
- See the glass pyramid
- Find the Mona Lisa
- View ancient Egyptian antiquities
How long do you need: 3–4 hours
Best time to visit: Wednesday and Friday evenings
Cost: Paid (€22)
Booking: Mandatory online time-slot reservation
Getting there: Take Metro Line 1 or 7 to Palais Royal Musée du Louvre.
Insider tip: Use the quieter underground Carrousel mall entrance to skip crowds.
3. Palace of Versailles
This breathtaking royal palace stands as one of the best places to visit in France if you want to discover decadent French history and monarchy.
What to do:
- Walk the Hall of Mirrors
- Tour the King’s Apartments
- Explore the geometric gardens
How long do you need: Half day
Best time to visit: Tuesday or Wednesday mornings
Cost: Paid (€24 – €32)
Booking: Required timed-entry ticket online
Getting there: Take the RER C train from Paris directly to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station.
Insider tip: Gardens are free on weekdays from November to March.
4. Disneyland Paris
It ranks among the most popular activities in France for tourists seeking true Disney magic mixed perfectly with wonderful European storytelling and beautiful fairytale castle designs.
What to do:
- Ride Space Mountain
- Watch evening drone shows
- Meet classic characters
How long do you need: Full day
Best time to visit: Tuesday through Thursday
Cost: Paid (€65 – €120+)
Booking: Mandatory online purchase before arrival
Getting there: Take the RER A train straight from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallée Chessy station.
Insider tip: Use the official app to join virtual ride queues.
5. Bordeaux Wine Tasting
Touring these legendary historic vineyards is considered one of the absolute best things to do in France for travelers who love fine world-class dining.
What to do:
- Tour underground cellars
- Blend grape varieties
- Visit Cité du Vin
How long do you need: 3–4 hours
Best time to visit: September to October harvest
Cost: Paid (€25 – €90+)
Booking: Required directly with each estate
Getting there: Take the high-speed TGV train from Paris to Bordeaux St-Jean station, then use local buses to access the vineyards.
Insider tip: Smaller family estates offer cheaper and more intimate tastings.
Read more: Looking to plan your complete vacation budget and trip logistics? Discover overall daily costs, popular travel routes, and essential safety tips. Read our blog 👉 France Travel Guide: Costs, Routes, Safety and More
6. Mont Saint-Michel
This spectacular gravity-defying medieval tidal island is one of the most stunning places to see in France offering incredible coastal panoramas and rich architecture.
What to do:
- Walk ancient ramparts
- Climb to the abbey
- Watch incoming tides
How long do you need: Half day
Best time to visit: Late afternoon
Cost: Island free, abbey paid (€13)
Booking: Recommended online for the abbey
Getting there: Take a train from Paris to Rennes, then catch a direct connecting shuttle bus to the site.
Insider tip: Stay overnight to experience the empty, misty village streets.
7. French Riviera Beaches
Relaxing on this glamorous Mediterranean coast provides plenty of fun things to do in France while you enjoy warm sunshine and stunning turquoise ocean waves.
What to do:
- Stroll Nice’s promenade
- Swim in Cannes
- Spot superyachts in Saint-Tropez
How long do you need: Full day
Best time to visit: June or September
Cost: Public free, clubs paid
Booking: Clubs require reservations
Getting there: Fly into Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, then use the scenic regional TER train line to hop between coastal towns.
Insider tip: Pack sturdy water shoes because beaches in Nice are very pebbly.
8. Châteaux of Loire Valley
This gorgeous fairytale region is the perfect answer for “what to do in France” if you appreciate remarkable Renaissance architecture and deep historical legacy.
What to do:
- See Chambord's staircase
- Walk Chenonceau's bridge
- Tour Villandry's gardens
How long do you need: Full day
Best time to visit: Spring bloom season
Cost: Paid (€13 – €17 per castle)
Booking: Recommended online during summer
Getting there: Take a train from Paris to Tours or Blois, then rent a car to drive between the châteaux easily.
Insider tip: Limit your visits to two châteaux daily to prevent burnout.
9. D-Day Beaches Tour
Visiting the quiet historic coastline of Normandy offers a deeply moving look at emotional battlefield monuments that completely changed the course of global modern history.
What to do:
- Visit the American Cemetery
- See Pointe du Hoc bunkers
- Walk Omaha Beach
How long do you need: Full day
Best time to visit: Spring or early autumn
Cost: Beaches free, museums paid
Booking: Book guided tours weeks ahead
Getting there: Take a train from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Bayeux, then rent a car or join a tour group.
Insider tip: Hire a local guide because vast battlefields lack signage.
10. Strasbourg Christmas Markets
This magical seasonal winter event stands out as one of the major must-see French attractions for anyone wanting to experience authentic holiday charm.
What to do:
- Drink warm mulled wine
- Browse wooden chalets
- See the giant tree
How long do you need: 2–3 hours
Best time to visit: Winter weekday evenings
Cost: Free entry
Booking: No entry tickets needed
Getting there: Take the direct high-speed TGV train from Paris Gare de l'Est to Strasbourg in under two hours.
Insider tip: Try the traditional flammekueche flatbread at local food stalls.
Read more: Want to uncover fascinating culture before your European getaway? Explore surprising historical trivia, local traditions, and fun cultural insights about the country. Read our blog 👉 20 Fun Facts About France That Will Surprise You
11. Gorge du Verdon Kayaking
Paddling through this massive natural canyon offers some of the most exciting fun activities to do in France for travelers loving beautiful mountain trails.
What to do:
- Rent a kayak
- Drive Route des Crêtes
- Swim in the lake
How long do you need: Half day
Best time to visit: May to June
Cost: Canyon free, rentals €20 – €40/hr
Booking: First-come, first-served
Getting there: A rental car is absolutely mandatory to reach this remote nature reserve from Nice or Marseille.
Insider tip: Arrive before 10 AM to secure a kayak rental.
12. Mont Blanc Cable Car
The soaring Aiguille du Midi cable car takes travelers directly into the sky to witness magnificent sweeping vistas across the highest peaks in the Alps.
What to do:
- Step into the glass cage
- View massive glaciers
- Explore the ice cave
How long do you need: 2–3 hours
Best time to visit: Early morning for clarity
Cost: Paid (€55 – €75+)
Booking: Highly recommended online
Getting there: Travel to the mountain resort town of Chamonix by regional train or bus from Geneva.
Insider tip: Wear thick layers because mountain top temperatures stay below freezing.
13. Monet’s Gardens in Giverny
Strolling through these peaceful landscapes feels exactly like stepping directly into the legendary impressionist oil masterpieces painted by the iconic master artist Claude Monet himself.
What to do:
- Cross the Japanese bridge
- Tour Monet’s house
- Walk the flower garden
How long do you need: 2–3 hours
Best time to visit: May through June
Cost: Paid (€11)
Booking: Mandatory online advance purchase
Getting there: Take a train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon station, then catch the local shuttle bus to Giverny.
Insider tip: Book the earliest morning slot to avoid crowded garden paths.
14. Carcassonne Medieval City
This grand fortified historic city remains one of the most uniquely preserved, famous things in France today, offering visitors a magical window into the past.
What to do:
- Walk the double walls
- Tour the Count’s Castle
- Eat local cassoulet stew
How long do you need: 3–4 hours
Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening
Cost: Citadel free, castle paid (€11)
Booking: Recommended online for the castle
Getting there: Take a regional train directly to Carcassonne station, then walk 20 minutes up to the fortress.
Insider tip: Enter through Aude Gate to skip busy main gate crowds.
15. Provence Lavender Fields
These vibrant rolling purple horizons rank high among the top scenic things to see in France if you visit during the mid-summer months.
What to do:
- Drive Valensole Plateau
- Photograph Senanque Abbey
- Buy lavender soaps
How long do you need: Half day
Best time to visit: Late June to mid-July
Cost: Free from roadsides
Booking: No booking required
Getting there: Fly into Marseille or take the train to Avignon, then rent a vehicle to explore the countryside.
Insider tip: Wear closed shoes to protect against busy field honeybees.
16. Lyon Food Tour
Exploring these local culinary markets is one of the most popular things in France for foodies wishing to sample amazing authentic regional dishes and cheeses.
What to do:
- Eat at a bouchon
- Explore the indoor markets
- Taste regional cheeses
How long do you need: 3–4 hours
Best time to visit: Year-round at lunchtime
Cost: Paid (€50 – €90)
Booking: Book weeks in advance
Getting there: Take a fast TGV train from Paris to Lyon Part-Dieu station in just two hours.
Insider tip: Skip eating breakfast before your tour to stay completely hungry.
17. Palace of Fontainebleau
This peaceful imperial estate tracked eight centuries of fascinating royal history, making it a wonderful alternative for escaping the massive crowds found in Paris.
What to do:
- See Napoleon’s throne room
- Walk Francis I Gallery
- Explore the forest
How long do you need: 3–4 hours
Best time to visit: Peaceful weekdays
Cost: Paid (€14)
Booking: Recommended but tickets available at door
Getting there: Take the Transilien Line R train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon station, then take Bus 1.
Insider tip: Visit this palace for a quieter alternative to crowded Versailles.
18. Climbing Dune of Pilat
This giant coastal sand mountain beautifully highlights the unique variety of breathtaking things to see and do in France far beyond historic metropolitan areas.
What to do:
- Climb the sand face
- Enjoy ocean views
- Watch colorful paragliders
How long do you need: 2 hours
Best time to visit: Late evening sunset
Cost: Dune free, parking paid
Booking: No booking required
Getting there: Take a train from Bordeaux to Arcachon, then catch the local bus straight to the dune entrance.
Insider tip: Wear running sneakers because hot afternoon sand burns bare feet.
Things to Do by Category
Historical & Cultural Things to Do
You can explore the grand Palace of Versailles, tour Carcassonne's fortress, or discover ancient Roman ruins to experience rich European heritage.
Museums & Art
Browsing these grand collections lets you experience must-see French attractions like the Louvre's Mona Lisa and Monet's beautiful gardens in Giverny.
Food & Drink Experiences
Tasting regional culinary specialties during a Bordeaux wine tasting or a Lyon food tour is a rewarding, fun activity to do in France.
Outdoor & Nature Activities
Hike rugged Mont Blanc trails, kayak down the deep Gorge du Verdon canyon, or cycle past beautiful rolling purple lavender fields outdoors.
Shopping
Shop for high-end fashion along grand Parisian boulevards or browse traditional Strasbourg Christmas markets to find authentic local vintage treasures.
Nightlife & Evening Activities
Watch the historic Eiffel Tower light up at sunset, attend world-class opera performances, or relax at vibrant city terrace cafes.
Unique / Local Experiences
Discovering hidden hillside villages introduces you to spectacular places to see in France while watching powerful coastal island tidal shifts at Mont Saint-Michel.
Free Things to Do in France
You can experience plenty of fun things to do in France for free by exploring these budget-friendly attractions:
- Dune of Pilat viewpoints
- French Riviera public beaches
- Le Marais historic neighborhood
- Strasbourg Christmas markets
- Free first-Sunday municipal museums
Things to Do in France for Different Travelers
Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors
- Eiffel Tower sunset views
- Historic Louvre Museum masterpieces
- Grand Palace of Versailles tours
Things to Do for Couples
- Bordeaux wine tasting tours
- French Riviera private cruises
- Saint-Tropez seaside dining
Things to Do with Kids
- Magical Disneyland Paris rides
- Medieval Carcassonne castle grounds
- Parc Astérix amusement parks
Things to Do for Solo Travelers
- Group Lyon food walking tours
- Vibrant Parisian sidewalk cafes
- Normandy coastal road trips
Things to Do for Budget Travelers
- Giant Dune of Pilat climbs
- Free municipal art museums
- Local morning food markets
Things to Do for Adventure Travelers
- Thrilling Gorge du Verdon kayaking
- Alpine Mont Blanc paragliding
- Strasbourg winter ice skating
Things to Do in France by Area
Explore these regional highlights to discover the best things to see and do in France on your vacation.
Northern France
You can visit the iconic Eiffel Tower, explore the Louvre, or tour the grand Palace of Versailles.
Southern France
Relax on the public French Riviera beaches, kayak the Gorge du Verdon, or tour Provence vineyards.
Western France
Discover the tidal Mont Saint-Michel abbey, see historic Loire Valley châteaux, or explore Normandy beaches.
Eastern France
Trek the alpine Mont Blanc peaks, browse Strasbourg Christmas markets, or visit colorful Colmar canals.
Central France
Join a guided Lyon food tour, hike historic Auvergne volcanoes, or enjoy scenic river boating.
Best Things to Do in France at Night
Experiencing the country after dark unveils some of the most popular things in France for travelers:
- Eiffel Tower sparkling sunset views
- Louvre glass pyramid evening illumination
- Strasbourg festive night market shopping
- Glamorous French Riviera seaside dining
- Traditional Parisian cabaret theater shows
- Romantic Seine River evening walks
Best Day Trips from France
Palace of Versailles
Located 20 kilometers outside Paris, this opulent royal palace takes a half day to explore by local RER C trains.
Champagne Region (Reims)
A 45-minute fast train ride brings wine lovers to historic underground chalk cellars for full-day authentic sparkling wine tastings.
Monet’s Gardens in Giverny
Wandering through these scenic impressionist water lily ponds takes a half day, offering relaxing activities in France for tourists.
Things to Do in France by Season
Understanding how weather affects regional highlights helps you choose the best time to visit France for your vacation.
Spring
You can stroll through blooming Giverny gardens and enjoy mild sightseeing crowds.
Summer
Relax on hot Riviera beaches and experience long daylight hours outdoor everywhere.
Fall/Autumn
Enjoy colorful Bordeaux vineyard harvest festivals and quiet medieval castle town walks.
Winter
Browse festive Strasbourg Christmas markets and hit snowy alpine Mont Blanc slopes.
Things to Do in France Based on Trip Length
If You Have 1 Day
You should focus entirely on the absolute essentials like an Eiffel Tower sunset view and exploring the Louvre Museum.
If You Have 2 Days
You can easily add secondary historic masterworks like touring the grand Palace of Versailles to your short city itinerary.
If You Have 3 Days
Spend your morning visiting the main attractions and spend your afternoon wandering through vibrant historic local neighborhoods.
If You Have 5–7 Days
Expand your travel plans by adding regional day trips and exploring less-touristy countryside experiences across different areas.
Read more: Wondering how to structure your daily vacation schedule? Map out your ultimate multi-day trip with detailed, easy-to-follow routes for any duration. Read our blog 👉 France Itinerary: 7, 10, 14 and 21-Day France Trip Ideas
Best Experiences for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first trip, prioritize these fun things to do in France:
- Iconic Paris landmark sightseeing, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum
- Grand Palace of Versailles historical tours
- Regional Bordeaux wine tastings or authentic Lyon food tours
- French Riviera beach relaxation and Mediterranean coastal walks
- Historic medieval castle exploration and vibrant morning village markets
How to Plan Your Activities
Setting up a smart daily schedule helps you maximize your vacation time across the country:
- Book ahead: Secure online time-slot reservations months in advance for popular monuments like the Louvre.
- Group geographically: Plan your daily sightseeing by neighborhood or region to minimize total transit time.
- Leave breathing room: Avoid tight scheduling by leaving ample time between major afternoon activities.
- Be spontaneous: Keep outdoor valley strolls and village market visits completely flexible.
- Check weather: Verify daily local forecasts since rain directly impacts alpine cable car visibility and canyon kayaking.
Getting Around France
If you are also wondering “how to get around in France”, matching your transport to the specific activity makes traveling easy:
- Walking to explore historic city centers and compact medieval villages.
- Metro networks to navigate large urban hubs like Paris quickly.
- Bus routes to reach smaller towns lacking direct rail access.
- Train lines via high-speed rail to connect major regional cities instantly.
- Taxi/rideshare options for convenient late-night airport transfers and evening travel.
- Ferry crossings to access beautiful offshore islands like Corsica.
- Rental car services to explore remote countryside areas and scenic routes.
How Much Do Things to Do in France Cost?
Expenses vary significantly by season, with prices peaking in summer:
- Free: Explore historic neighborhoods, public Riviera beaches, or Dune of Pilat. Walking through compact historic town centers.
- Budget: Standard museum tickets (€22–€32) or metro rides (€2.05–€2.55). Grab bakery sandwiches (€5–€10).
- Mid-range: Cable cars, group wine tours, and regional trains (€50–€90). Enjoy sit-down brasserie dinners.
- Premium: Private guided tours (€300+) and Michelin-starred dining (€150+).
Read more: Wondering if your mobile device functions on European networks? Check hardware compatibility, international coverage, roaming options, and device settings. Read our blog 👉 Will My Phone Work in France? Explained Completely
What to Book in Advance
Book ahead:
You must secure high-demand museum entry tickets, high-speed train seats, and popular guided excursions months in advance. Booking early guarantees your entry during peak summer travel seasons.
Usually flexible:
You can safely enjoy public parks, neighborhood strolls, and morning village markets spontaneously. These iconic outdoor spaces and scenic viewpoints require no entry fees or advanced time-slot ticketing.
Read more: Checking your travel entry requirements before booking flights? Find out whether your passport requires a tourist visa or entry authorization. Read our blog 👉 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to France? Visa Requirements
Common Mistakes When Planning Things to Do in France
Avoid making these mistakes:
- Packing too many famous things in France into a single afternoon.
- Forgetting to secure online time-slot reservations for popular monuments.
- Visiting top-rated landmarks during peak midday tourist crowds.
- Underestimating total travel times between different regional areas.
- Sticking exclusively to heavily crowded tourist traps during your entire stay.
Staying Connected in France
Getting around French sights is much easier when your phone handles navigation, live translations, train tickets, and dinner reservations smoothly. While public Wi-Fi is spotty and carrier roaming is costly, choosing an eSIM avoids physical SIM swaps.
A Jetpac eSIM for France delivers a fast, reliable connection anywhere in the country. Recognized as the best eSIM for France travel, it offers instant global connectivity and a 100% money-back guarantee.
Need mobile data while exploring France? See our France eSIM guide!
Read more: Want seamless data connectivity for navigation and trip apps? Learn all the convenient ways to get fast mobile internet abroad easily. Read our blog 👉 How to get mobile internet in France
FAQs
What are the best things to do in France?
The best things to do in France include seeing Eiffel Tower sunsets, exploring the Louvre, and wine tasting.
What is the number one thing to do?
Catching a sunset at the iconic Eiffel Tower is the ultimate highlight for any French trip.
How many days do I need?
You need at least five to seven days to cover top sights and regional highlights comfortably.
What can I do for free?
You can climb the Dune du Pilat, relax on Riviera beaches, or explore festive Christmas markets.
What are the best things to do with kids?
Taking kids to Disneyland Paris or exploring the medieval castle grounds in Carcassonne offers great fun.
What are the best things to do at night?
Watch the sparkling Eiffel Tower light up, enjoy Seine River walks, or watch traditional cabaret shows.
What should I book in advance?
You must secure timed entry tickets for major landmarks like the Louvre and Versailles early.
What should I not miss?
Do not miss exploring iconic historical landmarks, trying local food, or taking in the scenic countryside things to see and do in France.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is based on travel data, estimated prices, and regional details available at the time of writing in 2026. Specific details, including attraction ticket prices, transport schedules, opening hours, and entry requirements, are subject to change without notice. We recommend verifying current information directly with official venue websites and local tourism boards before planning your trip. Jetpac is not responsible for any changes or travel outcomes following publication.
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