15 OF THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN FRANCE – EXPERIENCE THE FRENCH WAY OF ROMANCE AND CHARM
France is a country with rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the picturesque French Riviera, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. Here are 10 of the best places to visit in France:
1. Paris
Paris is the capital city of France, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, world-class museums, fashion, and food. Here are some of the must-see places in Paris:
1. Eiffel Tower: This iconic landmark is the symbol of Paris and one of the most famous structures in the world. Visitors can go up to the top of the tower for a stunning view of the city.
2. Louvre Museum: This world-famous museum is home to some of the most famous works of art in the world, including the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral: This beautiful Gothic cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, and it has been the site of many historic events throughout French history.
4. Champs-Élysées: This famous avenue is home to some of the most exclusive shops, restaurants, and cafes in Paris, and it is a popular spot for tourists to take a stroll.
5. Montmartre: This historic neighborhood is located on a hill overlooking the city, and it is known for its charming streets, beautiful views, and the famous Basilica of Sacré-Cœur.
6. Musée d’Orsay: This museum is dedicated to impressionist and post-impressionist art, and it houses works by famous artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir.
7. Luxembourg Gardens: These beautiful gardens are located in the heart of Paris and are a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax, picnic, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
8. Sainte-Chapelle: This beautiful Gothic chapel is located on the Île de la Cité and is known for its stunning stained glass windows.
9. Opera Garnier: This historic opera house is one of the most famous in the world, and it is known for its stunning architecture and rich history.
2. Nice
Nice is a beautiful coastal city located on the French Riviera, in the southeast of France. It is known for its stunning beaches, charming streets, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the things to see and do in Nice:
1. Promenade des Anglais: This iconic palm-lined promenade stretches for miles along the Mediterranean coast, offering stunning views of the sea and the city.
2. Old Town: The historic Old Town of Nice is a charming neighborhood with winding streets, colorful buildings, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to wander, shop, and enjoy some of the local cuisine.
3. Castle Hill: This historic hill overlooking the city offers panoramic views of Nice and the surrounding area. It’s a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic.
4. Museums: Nice has a variety of world-class museums, including the Musée Matisse, which houses a large collection of works by the famous artist, and the Musée Marc Chagall, which features works by the artist inspired by biblical themes.
5. Beaches: Nice is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in France, including the Plage de la Promenade des Anglais, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
6. Markets: Nice has several lively markets, including the Cours Saleya Market, which sells a variety of local produce, flowers, and souvenirs.
7. Opera House: The Nice Opera House is a beautiful building with a rich history, and it hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
8. Gardens: Nice has several beautiful gardens, including the Jardin Albert 1er, which is located near the Old Town and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
9. Festivals: Nice is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Nice Carnival, which is one of the largest carnivals in the world.
3. Lyon
Lyon is a beautiful city located in the east-central part of France, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and culinary scene. Here are some of the things to see and do in Lyon:
1. Old Town: Lyon’s Old Town, also known as Vieux Lyon, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Renaissance districts in Europe. It’s a great place to explore the city’s rich history and culture.
2. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: This beautiful basilica is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of Lyon and the surrounding area.
3. Museums: Lyon is home to several world-class museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses a large collection of European art, and the Musée des Confluences, which explores the history of science and civilization.
4. Parc de la Tête d’Or: This beautiful park is located in the heart of the city and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. It’s home to a large lake, a rose garden, and a zoo.
5. Croix-Rousse: This historic neighborhood is located on a hill overlooking the city and is known for its beautiful architecture and artistic heritage.
6. Traboules: Lyon is famous for its traboules, a network of hidden passageways that were used by silk weavers to transport their goods. Many of these passageways are open to the public and offer a glimpse into the city’s history.
7. Place des Terreaux: This beautiful square is located in the heart of Lyon and is home to several impressive buildings, including the Lyon City Hall and the Museum of Fine Arts.
8. Silk Museum: Lyon has a rich history of silk production, and the Silk Museum explores the city’s relationship with the fabric through exhibits and demonstrations.
4. Marseille
Marseille is a vibrant port city located on the southern coast of France. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the things to see and do in Marseille:
1. Old Port: The Old Port is the historic heart of Marseille and is home to many cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place to take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere.
2. Notre-Dame de la Garde: This beautiful basilica is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of Marseille and the surrounding area.
3. Calanques: The Calanques are a series of stunning limestone cliffs and coves located just outside of Marseille. They are a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and boating.
4. MuCEM: The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM) is a world-class museum that explores the history and culture of the Mediterranean region.
5. Fort Saint-Jean: This historic fort is located on the Old Port and is home to several museums, including the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations.
6. Château d’If: This historic fortress is located on a small island just off the coast of Marseille and is famous for its appearance in the novel “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas.
7. La Canebière: La Canebière is Marseille’s main street and is home to many shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to take a stroll and people watch.
8. Les Docks: Les Docks is a renovated industrial area that has been turned into a modern shopping and entertainment complex.
9. Le Panier: Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest neighborhood and is home to many charming streets, cafes, and shops.
5. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a beautiful city located in southwestern France. It is known for its world-famous wines, stunning architecture, and rich history. Here are some of the things to see and do in Bordeaux:
1. Bordeaux Wine Museum: This museum is located in a beautiful 18th-century building and offers an interactive and informative journey through the history of wine-making in Bordeaux.
2. Place de la Bourse: This beautiful square is located in the heart of Bordeaux and is home to the famous “Miroir d’eau”, a reflecting pool that creates stunning reflections of the surrounding architecture.
3. Saint-André Cathedral: This beautiful Gothic cathedral is located in the heart of the city and dates back to the 12th century.
4. Les Quais: This scenic area along the Garonne River is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views of the river and the city.
5. La Cité du Vin: This unique museum is dedicated to the history and culture of wine and offers interactive exhibits, tastings, and workshops.
6. Saint-Michel Basilica: This beautiful basilica is located in the historic Saint-Michel neighborhood and offers stunning views of the city from its bell tower.
7. Musée des Beaux-Arts: This museum is home to a large collection of European art, including works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Renoir.
8. Place des Quinconces: This is one of the largest squares in Europe and is home to several beautiful statues and fountains.
9. Jardin Public: This beautiful park is located in the heart of Bordeaux and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
6. Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a charming city located in northeastern France, near the German border. It is known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and rich history. Here are some of the things to see and do in Strasbourg:
1. Strasbourg Cathedral: This stunning Gothic cathedral is a masterpiece of architecture and is one of the most famous landmarks in Strasbourg.
2. Petite France: This historic neighborhood is located in the heart of Strasbourg and is known for its charming half-timbered houses and narrow streets.
3. European Parliament: Strasbourg is home to several European Union institutions, including the European Parliament, which offers guided tours to visitors.
4. Palais Rohan: This beautiful palace is home to several museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Decorative Arts.
5. Strasbourg Christmas Market: This famous Christmas market is one of the oldest and largest in Europe and is a must-visit during the holiday season.
6. Parc de l’Orangerie: This beautiful park is the largest in Strasbourg and is home to a zoo, a lake, and several beautiful gardens.
7. Rohan Palace Gardens: These beautiful gardens are located behind the Palais Rohan and offer stunning views of the palace and the surrounding area.
8. Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: This museum is home to a large collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Miró.
9. Ponts Couverts: These historic covered bridges date back to the 13th century and offer beautiful views of the city and the river.
7. Montpellier
Montpellier is a vibrant city located in southern France, near the Mediterranean coast. It is known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and rich history. Here are some of the things to see and do in Montpellier:
1. Place de la Comédie: This lively square is the heart of Montpellier and is surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops.
2. Montpellier Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is located in the historic center of Montpellier and dates back to the 14th century.
3. Musée Fabre: This art museum is one of the largest in France and is home to a large collection of European paintings, sculptures, and drawings.
4. Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier: This beautiful botanical garden is the oldest in France and is home to over 2,600 species of plants.
5. Porte du Peyrou: This beautiful triumphal arch dates back to the 18th century and offers stunning views of the city.
6. Musée de l’histoire de Montpellier: This museum is dedicated to the history of Montpellier and offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past.
7. Place Royale du Peyrou: This beautiful square is home to several impressive monuments, including the Château d’Eau, a beautiful water tower.
8. Montpellier Zoo: This large zoo is home to over 100 species of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and tigers.
9. Opera Comedie: This beautiful opera house is located in the heart of Montpellier and offers a wide range of performances throughout the year.
8. Normandy
Normandy is a region located in northwestern France, known for its stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the things to see and do in Normandy:
1. D-Day Landing Beaches: These historic beaches, including Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, played a pivotal role in World War II and are a must-visit for history buffs.
2. Mont-Saint-Michel: This stunning island abbey is one of the most iconic landmarks in France and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Bayeux Tapestry: This 11th-century embroidered linen cloth is over 70 meters long and tells the story of the Norman conquest of England.
4. Rouen Cathedral: This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Normandy and was the inspiration for Claude Monet’s famous series of paintings.
5. Étretat Cliffs: These stunning chalk cliffs offer breathtaking views of the English Channel and are a popular spot for hiking and photography.
6. Caen Memorial Museum: This museum is dedicated to World War II and offers a fascinating insight into the conflict and its impact on the region.
7. Honfleur: This picturesque port town is known for its charming half-timbered houses and its association with famous artists such as Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin.
8. Deauville: This stylish seaside resort town is known for its elegant architecture, upscale shops, and its famous horse racing track.
9. Cider Route: This scenic route takes visitors through the picturesque countryside of Normandy, known for its apple orchards and delicious cider.
10. Camembert Cheese: Normandy is known for its delicious cheeses, including the famous Camembert, which is made from the milk of Normandy cows.
9. Avignon
Avignon is a charming city located in southeastern France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the things to see and do in Avignon:
1. Palais des Papes: This magnificent palace was the residence of the popes in the 14th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Pont d’Avignon: This famous bridge, also known as the Pont Saint-Bénézet, is a symbol of the city and offers stunning views of the Rhône River.
3. Avignon Cathedral: This beautiful Gothic cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is home to a stunning collection of religious art.
4. Musée du Petit Palais: This art museum is housed in a beautiful Renaissance building and is home to a large collection of Italian and Provençal paintings.
5. Place de l’Horloge: This lively square is the heart of Avignon and is home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
6. Rocher des Doms: This beautiful park is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the Rhône River and the surrounding countryside.
7. Les Halles d’Avignon: This indoor market is a must-visit for foodies, offering a wide range of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties.
8. Festival d’Avignon: This world-renowned arts festival takes place every July and attracts performers and audiences from around the world.
9. Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon: This beautiful monastery dates back to the 14th century and is now home to a cultural center and art museum.
10. Wine Tasting: Avignon is located in the heart of the Rhône Valley, one of France’s premier wine regions, and is a great base for exploring the local vineyards and sampling some of the region’s famous wines.
10. Versailles
Versailles is a city located just outside of Paris, France, famous for its magnificent Palace of Versailles. Here are some of the things to see and do in Versailles:
1. Palace of Versailles: This stunning palace was the residence of the kings of France from the 17th to the 18th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace is famous for its opulent interiors, beautiful gardens, and grand halls, including the famous Hall of Mirrors.
2. Gardens of Versailles: These beautiful gardens cover over 800 hectares and feature formal gardens, fountains, canals, and a stunning grand canal. The gardens are free to visit and are a must-see when visiting the palace.
3. Marie Antoinette’s Estate: This beautiful estate was the private residence of the queen and includes the Petit Trianon, the Temple of Love, and the Queen’s Hamlet, a charming village-like setting where Marie Antoinette liked to relax and escape from the stresses of court life.
4. Musical Fountains Show: From April to October, the gardens of Versailles come alive with a musical fountains show, featuring classical music and synchronized water displays.
5. King’s Apartments: These opulent apartments were the private chambers of the king and are beautifully decorated with works of art, tapestries, and luxurious furnishings.
6. Grand Trianon: This stunning pink marble palace was built by Louis XIV as a retreat from the formalities of court life and is set in beautiful gardens.
7. The Hall of Mirrors: This grand hall is one of the most famous rooms in the Palace of Versailles and is lined with 357 mirrors that reflect the light from the garden outside.
8. Royal Chapel: This beautiful chapel is located in the palace and is famous for its stunning frescoes, sculptures, and baroque architecture.
9. The Royal Opera: This stunning opera house was built in the 18th century and is beautifully decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and gold leaf.
10. Versailles Market: This outdoor market is held every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday and is a great place to sample local cheeses, meats, and produce.
