Top Things to Do in France

France, nestled in Western Europe, is no ordinary spot—history spills from its streets, food dazzles, and every turn offers a new view. Its streets ooze history, the food’s out of this world, and every corner throws a different view at you. Swing by Paris, and you’ll see what I mean.

What pops into your head when you think of Paris? Maybe the Eiffel Tower twinkling at night or the smell of fresh coffee at a street café? The vibe’s something else—old stone buildings, narrow lanes, and that waft of freshly baked baguettes. But hold on—don’t think France is just Paris. Down south, the French Riviera’s got dazzling blue seas, Provence has lavender fields that’ll steal your breath, and up north, Normandy’s got those wild, wavy shores. Into art? Museums galore. History buff? Castles aplenty. Just want a good meal to end the day? You’re covered. And the wine—well, skipping a glass in France feels almost rude.

Why Go to France? Is It Worth It?

France pulls in millions every year—back in 2023, pre-pandemic stats say over 80 million folks dropped by. Why? Simple: there’s something for everyone. You’re gawking at the Mona Lisa in Paris one day, sipping wine at sunset in Bordeaux the next. Alps for skiing, Loire Valley for fairytale castles. Chasing romance? A hand-in-hand stroll along the Seine in Paris does the trick. But it’s not all rosy. Tourist hotspots can burn a hole in your wallet, crowds can get on your nerves, and if you don’t speak French, you might have a few awkward garson moments. Still, it’s all part of the adventure.

Top Things to Do in France: A Traveler’s Big List

France has so much going on, you’ll wonder where to start. Here’s a rundown of spots most travelers hit, with a bit more meat on the bones:

1. Visit Paris – The city’s alive, every corner a surprise. Climb the Eiffel Tower and go “Wow,” stare at Notre-Dame’s stones and drift into the past. Take an evening walk by the Seine, then dive into the Louvre—it’ll eat up a whole day. Heads-up, though: summer’s packed, and waiting in the heat takes patience.
2. Chill on the French Riviera – Hanging out in Nice or Cannes is a treat. The sea’s crystal clear, sparkling like mad. But high season? Good luck finding a spot—sunbed prices might make you blink twice.
3. Explore Provence – Get lost in lavender fields, pop into little villages. Sip coffee in Gordes, soak in the view—fresh air, pure calm. Car’s a must, though; roads are tight.
4. Check Out Strasbourg – Right by Germany, cute as a button. The Gothic cathedral grabs you, wandering the canals is a blast. Try some Alsatian grub—like “tarte flambée,” a thin, tasty pizza vibe.
5. Take a Wine Tour – Love wine? You’re in luck. Wander vineyards in Bordeaux, raise a bubbly glass in Champagne. Locals are usually friendly, but some tours can hit your wallet hard.

Don’t-Miss Spots

– Eiffel Tower – Skipping this in Paris is a no-go. Views are killer, but the crowds? Tiring.
– Palace of Versailles – Perfect for a royal vibe. Gardens are stunning, though inside can feel like a sardine tin.
– Champs-Élysées – Shopping, food, people-watching—all here. Bring a fat wallet.
– Notre-Dame – Until it’s restored, peek from outside—still wows.
– Louvre Museum – See the Mona Lisa, but don’t skip the rest—35,000 pieces, no chance you’ll see it all.

Eiffel Tower: Paris’ Heartbeat

The Eiffel Tower’s not just a landmark—it’s practically France’s face. Built in 1889 for a fair, some folks back then called it an eyesore, but now Paris without it? Unthinkable. It’s 324 meters tall, three levels open—top’s got a view that’ll floor you. Hit it early to dodge the crowds or swing by at night for the lights. Tickets run 11-28 euros (2025 prices), grab ‘em online to skip the line. Stairs are cheaper, but 674 steps later, your legs might beg for mercy. Local tip: there’s a little café on the first floor—perfect for a coffee break.

Palace of Versailles: Luxury Meets History

Half an hour from Paris by train, you’re at the Palace of Versailles. From Louis XIV’s days, over 700 rooms—pure grandeur, steeped in history. Stroll the Hall of Mirrors and feel like you’re at a royal ball, wander the gardens and get lost in flower scents. Marie Antoinette’s hamlet’s a bonus—like stepping into a storybook. Entry’s 21 euros, and spring-summer brings fountain shows—don’t miss ‘em. Summer crowds can squeeze you in, though, so go early. Gardens are huge—pack water or you’ll be parched.

Champs-Élysées: Paris’ Busy Soul

Champs-Élysées is Paris’ liveliest strip. Starts at the Arc de Triomphe, stretches 1.9 kilometers with shops, cafés, and folks everywhere. Fancy shopping? Big names like Louis Vuitton and Cartier line up. But just walking’s enough—street performers, tourist buzz, tree-lined charm. Eating at Fouquet’s? Budget 40-60 euros per person—tasty, but the bill makes you pause. On Bastille Day (July 14), it’s a party zone with a free parade.

What to Do on Champs-Élysées?

– Take a stroll, wave at the Arc.
– Rest in Jardin des Champs-Élysées among the flowers.
– Grab a pastry—macarons are classic and yummy.

Notre-Dame: A Story in Stone

Notre-Dame sits smack in Paris, right by the Seine. Gothic architecture at its finest. The 2019 fire hit hard, but it’s bouncing back—word is it’ll reopen by late 2025. For now, you’re stuck gazing from outside; those towers and carvings still pack a punch. Locals say, “Standing after the fire? That’s a miracle.” Once open, entry’s free, but climbing the towers costs extra. Pop into nearby Shakespeare and Company bookstore—chill spot with great reads.

Louvre: A Day Full of Art

Step into the Louvre, and art just hits you. Mona Lisa’s there, Venus de Milo too—35,000 works total, no way you’ll see it all. Open 9 AM to 6 PM, Fridays till 9:45 PM. Tickets are 17 euros, online’s your best bet. Want less chaos? Go late, but brace for selfie-stick battles by Mona Lisa. It’s massive—wear comfy shoes and bring water, or you’ll pay 5 euros at the gift shop. Hidden gem: old castle ruins in the basement, skipped by most but worth a look.

Mona Lisa: Small but Mighty

Mona Lisa’s the Louvre’s star. Tiny painting, huge crowd. Is it the smile? The eyes that follow you? Something pulls you in. Leonardo da Vinci’s work, from the 1500s. Get there early for a close-up, or it’s elbow-to-elbow viewing. A local guide says, “Everyone snaps pics, but no one really sees it”—pause and take it in, you’ll get it.

Planning Your France Trip: Step by Step

Heading to France takes some prep, but don’t sweat it—here’s how:
– Pick your spots—Paris for culture, Riviera for sea?
– Hunt for flights—cheap deals to Paris (Charles de Gaulle) or Nice are gold.
– Book a place—Paris hotels 100-200 euros a night, Riviera 150-300. Hostels? 30-50 euros.
– Grab tickets early—Eiffel, Louvre, Versailles online saves queue time.
– Pack light, but toss in a sweater; weather flips fast.
– Download a French phrase guide—“Merci” and “S’il vous plaît” go far.

What’s Happening in France in 2025?

France in 2025 is buzzing for travelers. Here’s the scoop as of February 23, 2025, with confirmed and expected events:

– Nice Carnival (February 15-March 2) – Down on the French Riviera in Nice, one of the world’s biggest carnivals. Sea and ocean theme with parades, costumes, flower battles. Locals say, “Water sports fans will love it.” Crowds get thick—book early.
– Paris Agricultural Show (February 22-March 2) – At Paris Expo, 4,000 animals and regional eats celebrate farming. Kids dig the critters; tickets 15-20 euros, free for under 6.
– Art Capital Paris (February 19-22) – Grand Palais hosts 2,000 artists showing modern stuff. Entry’s 22 euros, mornings are quieter. Art lovers, this one’s for you.
– Paris Marathon (April 13) – Starts at Champs-Élysées, 42 km of Paris views. Locals warn, “Train or it’s tough, but fun.”
– Paris Book Fair (April 11-13) – Grand Palais, 1,200 publishers for book nerds. 15 euros in, weekends get busy.
– Fête de la Bretagne (May 16-25) – 10 days of Breton culture—dance, music, food. Locals call it “a taste of Brittany’s soul.”
– Museum Night (May 17) – Museums open free at night across Europe. Louvre and Musée d’Orsay throw special events—night tours rock.
– Cannes Film Festival (May 13-24) – Cinema’s heart beats here. Red carpets, premieres—tickets are scarce, act fast.
– French Open (May 25-June 8) – Roland-Garros, clay courts, top tennis. Evening tickets pricier.
– Tour de France (July 5-27) – Epic bike race, all in France this year, kicking off in Lille. Village markets pop up—locals say, “Rural vibes beat the city.”
– Bastille Day (July 14) – National holiday with fireworks in Paris, parade on Champs-Élysées. Get there early for a spot.
– Lavender Season (June-August) – Provence turns purple. Morning light’s best for pics, say local guides.

Late 2025 and 2026 Hopes

By late 2025, think August-September, lavender harvest festivals might pop up in Provence—check out Corso de la Lavande in Digne-les-Bains (around August 1-5, dates TBD). Great for photographers and nature fans. In 2026, music festivals could ramp up—Rock en Seine and Hellfest might bring bigger names. Plus, the European Swimming Championships could draw crowds.

Where to Stay, What to Eat?

– Paris Hotels – Fancy? Hôtel de Crillon (800 euros up). Budget? ibis (90-120 euros). Airbnb works too.
– French Riviera – Nice’s Hôtel Negresco is posh, 250-400 euros a night. Cheaper spots are off the coast.
– Food – Le Jules Verne at the Eiffel’s pricey but scenic (150-200 euros). La Tour d’Argent’s a classic, 100-150 euros. Street crepes? 5-10 euros, delicious.
– Local treat: “Croque-monsieur,” a toasty sandwich—8-12 euros at cafés, simple and filling.

Pros and Cons of Visiting France

Pros

– History’s everywhere—castles, museums, streets tell tales.
– Food’s unreal—cheese, wine, desserts galore.
– Something for all—sea, mountains, cities.

Cons

– Tourist spots cost a fortune—even coffee’s 5 euros.
– Crowds can be a drag—Paris in summer, whew.
– No French? Little hiccups happen—smile through it.

Quick Info Table

FAQ: What Travelers Want to Know

Off-the-Radar Tips

– Paris metro gets you anywhere, tickets around 2 euros—skip taxis.
– Riviera beaches are pebbly—bring water shoes.
– Provence has lavender honey—sweet-tooth heaven.
– Strasbourg’s Christmas market (Nov-Dec) is a fairytale if you catch it.

Ready for France? Eiffel’s lights, Provence’s lavender scent—places like these pull you into another world. Pack your bag, start with a coffee break—maybe you’ll hit a street and think, “This is it!”