Things to Do in France: Complete Travel Guide and Tips

Introduction

France is one of the most visited countries in the world and for very good reason. It is a country that effortlessly combines world class art, extraordinary cuisine, romantic landscapes and centuries of history into one unforgettable travel experience. From the iconic streets of Paris to the sun drenched beaches of the French Riviera and the lavender fields of Provence, the things to do in France are as diverse as they are breathtaking.

This France travel guide is designed to help every type of traveler explore France with confidence. Whether you are a first time visitor trying to understand where to begin, a couple looking for a romantic escape, a food lover chasing the finest cuisine in Europe or an adventurer seeking new experiences, France has something extraordinary waiting for you.

France is also one of the most well connected countries in Europe. An excellent network of high speed trains, budget airlines and motorways makes it easy to move between regions quickly and comfortably. With the right planning and a clear France itinerary, you can experience the very best this magnificent country has to offer.

Best Places to Visit in France

The best places to visit in France span an incredible range of landscapes, cultures and experiences. The country is far more than just Paris, though Paris alone could fill an entire trip. The best cities in France to visit include Paris, Nice, Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille and Strasbourg, each offering a completely unique character and atmosphere.

Beyond the cities, France rewards those who venture into its regions. Provence dazzles with lavender fields and Roman ruins. The French Riviera stuns with a glamorous coastline and crystal clear water. Normandy moves visitors with its powerful wartime history. The Loire Valley is enchanting with fairy tale castles and vineyards. No matter where you go in France, the experience will be memorable.

Paris Travel Guide

No France travel guide would be complete without beginning in Paris. The French capital is one of the most iconic and romantic cities in the entire world. It is a city of grand boulevards, world class museums, extraordinary food and an atmosphere that is unlike anywhere else on earth. This Paris travel guide will help you navigate and enjoy the city to its fullest.

Things to Do in Paris

Things to do in Paris include visiting the Eiffel Tower, exploring the Louvre Museum and its extraordinary art collection, walking along the banks of the Seine River, discovering the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur Basilica, taking a day trip to the Palace of Versailles, exploring the charming Le Marais district, visiting Notre Dame Cathedral, shopping along the Champs Elysees and experiencing the world class Parisian cafe and restaurant scene.

Best Places to Visit in Paris

Eiffel Tower: The most recognizable landmark in the world and the symbol of France
Louvre Museum: The largest art museum in the world and home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other masterpieces
Palace of Versailles: A breathtaking royal palace surrounded by vast and immaculate formal gardens
Notre Dame Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece currently being restored after the 2019 fire
Montmartre: A charming hilltop neighborhood famous for the Sacre Coeur Basilica, art studios and panoramic city views
Le Marais: One of the most fashionable and historic neighborhoods in Paris with excellent galleries, restaurants and boutiques
Musee d’Orsay: Home to the finest collection of Impressionist art in the world including works by Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh
Sainte Chapelle: A stunning medieval chapel with some of the most beautiful stained glass windows in the world

Paris Travel Tips

Book all major Paris attractions including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Palace of Versailles well in advance as queues can be extremely long during peak season. The Paris Metro is efficient, affordable and the best way to get around the city. Many of the most prestigious museums in Paris offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. Always greet shop owners and restaurant staff with Bonjour when entering as it is considered basic courtesy in French culture.

French Riviera Travel Guide

The French Riviera travel guide covers one of the most glamorous and beautiful stretches of coastline in the entire world. Known in French as the Cote d’Azur, the French Riviera runs along the southeastern coast of France bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It is famous for its stunning beaches, luxury lifestyle, vibrant culture and picture perfect scenery.

Things to Do on the French Riviera

Relax on the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice
Visit the glamorous harbor of Monaco and the iconic Casino de Monte Carlo
Explore the medieval hilltop villages of Eze and Saint Paul de Vence
Take a boat trip to the beautiful Lerins Islands off the coast of Cannes
Visit the Matisse Museum and Marc Chagall Museum in Nice
Explore the old town of Antibes and its excellent Picasso Museum
Attend the Cannes Film Festival if visiting in May
Swim and sunbathe at the stunning beaches along the coastline

Best Places to Visit on the French Riviera

Nice: The capital of the French Riviera and one of the most beautiful cities in France
Monaco: A tiny but glamorous principality famous for its casino, Formula One Grand Prix and luxury yachts
Cannes: Famous worldwide for its prestigious film festival and beautiful Boulevard de la Croisette
Antibes: A charming coastal town with a well preserved old town and excellent Picasso Museum
Eze: A dramatically beautiful medieval village perched high above the Mediterranean Sea
Saint Tropez: A legendary resort town famous for its beaches, nightlife and celebrity culture

Nice Travel Guide

Nice is the beating heart of the French Riviera and one of the most vibrant and beautiful cities in all of France. It offers a perfect combination of beach life, cultural experiences, excellent food and a lively atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back year after year. This Nice travel guide covers everything you need to know about this magnificent city.

Things to Do in Nice

Things to do in Nice include strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais, exploring the colorful and bustling Vieux Nice old town, visiting the Marche du Cours Saleya flower and food market, discovering the Matisse Museum and Marc Chagall Museum, taking the scenic train or walking up to Castle Hill for panoramic views over the city and coastline, relaxing on the pebble beaches of the Baie des Anges and taking day trips to Monaco, Eze and Cannes.

Best Places to Visit in Nice

Promenade des Anglais: The iconic seafront boulevard stretching along the Bay of Angels
Vieux Nice: The charming old town with colorful baroque architecture, narrow streets and lively markets
Castle Hill: A hilltop park offering the most spectacular panoramic views over Nice and the coastline
Matisse Museum: A wonderful museum dedicated to the life and work of Henri Matisse who lived in Nice for many years
Marche du Cours Saleya: One of the most vibrant and colorful outdoor markets in all of France

Provence Travel Guide

The Provence travel guide introduces one of the most enchanting and unique regions in all of France. Located in the southeast of the country, Provence is famous for its fields of lavender, ancient Roman monuments, hilltop villages, world class wine and olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see. It is a region that moves at a slower and more beautiful pace than anywhere else in France.

Things to Do in Provence

Walk through the stunning lavender fields around Valensole and Sault in June and July
Explore the remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheater in Arles
Visit the charming hilltop villages of Gordes, Les Baux de Provence and Roussillon
Take a boat trip through the spectacular Calanques near Marseille
Visit the Pont du Gard, one of the most impressive ancient Roman aqueducts in the world
Explore the historic city of Avignon and the famous Palais des Papes
Taste local wines in the vineyards of Chateauneuf du Pape and Bandol
Wander through the colorful weekly markets that take place across Provencal villages

Best Places to Visit in Provence

Avignon: A historic walled city famous for the magnificent Palais des Papes and the medieval Pont dAvignon
Arles: A charming city with exceptional Roman monuments and a deep connection to the artist Vincent van Gogh
Gordes: One of the most beautiful hilltop villages in France with stunning views across the Luberon valley
Aix en Provence: An elegant university city famous for its fountains, markets and connection to the painter Paul Cezanne
Roussillon: A unique village built from red and orange ochre cliffs with extraordinary colors and landscapes
Les Baux de Provence: A dramatic ruined castle village perched on a rocky ridge with breathtaking views

Lyon Travel Guide

Lyon is one of the most underrated and rewarding cities in all of France. It is widely considered the gastronomic capital of France and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a remarkably well preserved historic center. Lyon deserves a prominent place in any serious France itinerary.

Things to Do in Lyon

Things to do in Lyon include exploring the UNESCO listed old town of Vieux Lyon with its famous Renaissance architecture and hidden traboules passageways, visiting the excellent Musee des Beaux Arts which houses one of the finest art collections in France, climbing to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere for spectacular views over the city, exploring the ancient Roman theaters on Fourviere Hill, dining in a traditional Lyonnais bouchon restaurant and discovering the vibrant Croix Rousse neighborhood.

Best Places to Visit in Lyon

Vieux Lyon: The largest Renaissance old town in France, filled with beautiful architecture and fascinating hidden passageways
Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere: A stunning basilica on a hilltop offering breathtaking panoramic views over Lyon and beyond
Croix Rousse: A bohemian hilltop neighborhood famous for its silk weaving history, street art and excellent food market
Musee des Beaux Arts: One of the finest art museums in France with a remarkable collection spanning thousands of years
Presquile: The vibrant peninsula at the heart of Lyon filled with shops, restaurants, squares and cultural attractions

Bordeaux Travel Guide

Bordeaux is one of the most elegant and sophisticated cities in France. It is the undisputed wine capital of the world and a city that has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years to become one of the most visited destinations in the country.

Things to Do in Bordeaux

Things to do in Bordeaux include exploring the stunning UNESCO listed historic center, visiting the Cite du Vin wine museum which is one of the most impressive and innovative museums in France, tasting world class wines at chateaux in the surrounding Saint Emilion and Medoc wine regions, walking along the beautiful Garonne riverfront, visiting the magnificent Place de la Bourse and its famous mirror pool, exploring the excellent food market at Marche des Capucins and discovering the vibrant Saint Pierre and Saint Michel neighborhoods.

Best Places to Visit in Bordeaux

Place de la Bourse: One of the most beautiful squares in France with a stunning reflecting pool in front
Cite du Vin: A spectacular museum dedicated to wine culture from around the world with incredible architecture
Saint Emilion: A UNESCO listed medieval wine village surrounded by some of the most prestigious vineyards in the world
Marche des Capucins: The most beloved and vibrant food market in Bordeaux, perfect for sampling local produce
Pont de Pierre: A beautiful historic bridge spanning the Garonne River with excellent views over the city

Marseille Travel Guide

Marseille is the oldest city in France and one of the most authentic and energetic destinations in the country. It is a city with a rich multicultural heritage, a dramatic coastal setting and a raw character that sets it apart from anywhere else in France.

Things to Do in Marseille

Things to do in Marseille include exploring the vibrant Vieux Port old harbor, visiting the stunning Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica which dominates the city skyline, taking a boat trip to explore the breathtaking Calanques National Park, discovering the historic Le Panier neighborhood, visiting the excellent MuCEM Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, eating fresh bouillabaisse seafood stew at local restaurants along the port and taking a ferry to the Chateau dIf fortress made famous by Alexandre Dumas.

Best Places to Visit in Marseille

Vieux Port: The ancient harbor at the heart of Marseille, surrounded by restaurants, markets and vibrant street life
Notre Dame de la Garde: A magnificent basilica perched on the highest point in Marseille with extraordinary views
Calanques National Park: A stunning series of dramatic rocky inlets with crystal clear turquoise water
Le Panier: The oldest neighborhood in Marseille with colorful streets, independent shops and a rich multicultural atmosphere
MuCEM: A world class museum exploring Mediterranean history and culture housed in a striking contemporary building
Chateau dIf: A historic island fortress in the Bay of Marseille with a fascinating and dramatic history

France Itinerary

Planning a well structured France itinerary is essential for making the most of your time in this vast and diverse country. France has so much to offer across so many different regions that careful planning is the key to a truly rewarding experience.

France Itinerary 10 Days

A France itinerary of 10 days gives you enough time to experience the very best of the country across multiple regions without feeling rushed.

Day 1 to 3: Paris (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, Montmartre, Seine River)
Day 4: Loire Valley (fairy tale castles and vineyard landscapes)
Day 5: Lyon (Vieux Lyon, Fourviere Hill, gastronomic dining)
Day 6: Provence (lavender fields, Avignon, hilltop villages)
Day 7 to 8: Nice and the French Riviera (Promenade des Anglais, Monaco, Eze)
Day 9: Bordeaux (Cité du Vin, Saint Emilion, riverfront)
Day 10: Marseille (Vieux Port, Calanques, Notre Dame de la Garde)

This itinerary gives you a perfect balance of city culture, coastal beauty, gastronomy and regional diversity across France.

France Travel Tips

Following the right France travel tips will make your experience significantly more enjoyable and rewarding from the very first day.

Always learn a few basic French phrases before your trip. Even simple greetings like Bonjour and Merci are deeply appreciated by locals throughout the country. Book major attractions especially in Paris well in advance as popular sites fill up very quickly during peak season. Validate your train ticket before boarding at all times to avoid fines from ticket inspectors. Tipping in France is appreciated but not obligatory as service charges are usually included in restaurant bills. Use the excellent TGV high speed train network to travel between cities quickly and comfortably. Always carry some cash as smaller restaurants, markets and shops in regional France often do not accept card payments.

Best Time to Visit France

The best time to visit France depends on which regions you plan to explore and what kind of experience you are looking for.

Spring from April to June is widely considered the finest time to visit France. The weather is warm and pleasant, the countryside is in full bloom and the tourist crowds have not yet reached their summer peak. This is particularly beautiful in Provence where the lavender begins to bloom in late June and July.

Summer from July to August is the peak tourist season across the entire country. Paris, the French Riviera and major attractions are extremely busy and prices are significantly higher. However the weather is excellent and the atmosphere is vibrant and lively.

Autumn from September to October is an excellent time to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds and more reasonable prices. The weather remains warm especially in the south and the wine harvest season adds a wonderful extra dimension to visits to Bordeaux and Burgundy.

Winter from November to February is the quietest period. Paris retains much of its charm and magic in winter while the French Alps become a world class skiing destination for those seeking snow based adventures.

France Visa Requirements

Understanding France visa requirements before you travel is essential to ensure a smooth and trouble free entry into the country. France is a member of the Schengen Area which means that a single Schengen visa allows entry into France and all other participating European countries.

Citizens of many countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and many others can enter France without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180 day period for tourism purposes. However it is always important to verify the latest entry requirements based on your specific nationality before booking your trip as regulations and agreements can change.

For stays longer than 90 days or for purposes other than tourism such as study or work, a specific French long stay visa will be required. Always ensure your passport is valid for the full duration of your intended stay and ideally for at least six months beyond your return date.

Is France Safe for Tourists

Is France safe for tourists is a question that many first time visitors ask before planning their trip. The answer is yes, France is a very safe country with well developed public services, strong law enforcement and a well established tourism infrastructure that welcomes tens of millions of international visitors every year.

As with any major travel destination, certain precautions are advisable. Pickpocketing can occur in busy areas of Paris such as around the Eiffel Tower, on the Metro and in crowded tourist areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings in busy public spaces. Outside of Paris, the vast majority of France is extremely peaceful and welcoming. With basic common sense and awareness, France is a wonderful and very safe destination for all types of travelers.

Cost of Traveling to France

Understanding the cost of traveling to France is an important part of planning a realistic and enjoyable trip. France can be expensive, particularly in Paris and along the French Riviera, but it also offers excellent value for money in many regional areas.

France Travel Budget

Your France travel budget will vary significantly depending on where you travel within the country, your accommodation choices and your travel style.

Budget: 70 to 100 dollars per day covering hostels, bakeries, street food and free or low cost attractions
Mid Range: 150 to 250 dollars per day covering comfortable hotels, restaurants and guided experiences
Luxury: 400 dollars and above per day covering five star hotels, Michelin starred dining and private tours

Budget Travel in France

Traveling on a budget in France is very achievable with the right approach. Take advantage of free museum days in Paris, eat at local boulangeries and marches rather than tourist restaurants, use the efficient and affordable public transport network and consider visiting regional cities like Lyon, Bordeaux and Marseille where the cost of accommodation and dining is significantly lower than in Paris.

Luxury Travel in France

France is one of the finest destinations in the world for luxury travel. From palatial hotels along the Champs Elysees in Paris to exclusive wine chateau stays in Bordeaux, private villa rentals in Provence and glamorous resorts along the French Riviera, France delivers world class luxury experiences at every level.

France Packing List

A well prepared France packing list will ensure you are fully ready for the diverse experiences and climates that France has to offer across its many different regions.

Comfortable and stylish walking shoes suitable for cobblestone streets in Paris and Provence
Smart casual clothing as French culture values personal presentation especially in cities and restaurants
A light waterproof jacket as Paris and northern France can experience rain at any time of year
Sunscreen and sunglasses especially for travel to the French Riviera, Provence and southern regions
A universal power adapter as France uses Type E electrical plugs
A reusable water bottle as tap water is safe to drink throughout France
A small crossbody or anti theft bag for carrying valuables securely in crowded tourist areas
All necessary travel documents including passport, visa if required, travel insurance and accommodation bookings

Final Thoughts

France is a country that never fails to inspire, surprise and delight. From the romantic streets of Paris and the glamorous coastline of the French Riviera to the lavender fields of Provence and the gastronomic wonders of Lyon and Bordeaux, the things to do in France are truly endless and endlessly rewarding.

This France travel guide has covered all the essential information you need to plan an unforgettable trip. From the best places to visit in France and in depth city guides to France travel tips, visa information and budget advice, everything you need to explore this extraordinary country is right here.

Whether you are following a carefully planned France itinerary of 10 days across multiple regions or focusing your time on a single city or area, France will reward you with beauty, culture, cuisine and memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in France?

The best things to do in France include visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris, exploring the lavender fields of Provence, relaxing on the French Riviera, tasting wine in Bordeaux and discovering the historic old town of Lyon.

What is the best time to visit France?

The best time to visit France is from April to June and September to October for pleasant weather, fewer crowds and more reasonable prices across the country.

How much does it cost to travel to France?

The cost of traveling to France ranges from around 70 dollars per day for budget travelers to 400 dollars or more per day for those seeking a luxury experience.

What are the best cities in France to visit?

The best cities in France to visit include Paris, Nice, Lyon, Bordeaux and Marseille, each offering a completely unique culture, atmosphere and set of experiences.

Is France safe for tourists?

Yes. Is France safe for tourists is a common question and the answer is that France is a very safe destination. Basic precautions such as keeping belongings secure in busy tourist areas will ensure a trouble free and enjoyable trip.

Do I need a visa to visit France?

Check France visa requirements based on your nationality. Many countries can visit France without a visa for up to 90 days under the Schengen Agreement.

What should I pack for France?

A good France packing list includes comfortable walking shoes, smart casual clothing, a light waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a universal power adapter and all necessary travel documents.

How many days do I need for France?

A France itinerary of 10 days is ideal for experiencing the highlights of the country including Paris, the French Riviera, Provence and at least one or two regional cities comfortably.

What are the best things to do in Paris?

Things to do in Paris include visiting the Eiffel Tower, exploring the Louvre Museum, taking a day trip to Versailles, walking through Montmartre and enjoying world class French cuisine across the city.

What are the best things to do in Nice?

Things to do in Nice include strolling the Promenade des Anglais, exploring Vieux Nice, visiting the Matisse Museum, relaxing on the beach and taking day trips to Monaco and the surrounding French Riviera coastline.