Explore France: What To See and Do In The Different Regions of France

The Eiffel Tower is probably the first thing that everyone thinks of when they think of Paris. Completed in 1889, this colossal landmark is a world-famous symbol of French Pride. Get your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance and take the stairs or the elevator to the summit of the structure for unbeatable panoramic views of the city. You can even eat in the Eiffel Tower Restaurant!

This world-famous cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is the symbolic heart of the city. Construction began on this cathedral in the 12th century, and despite a few disasters over the centuries, it still stands proud in the heart of the Île de la Cité. Spend an afternoon learning about Paris’ rich history on a guided tour of the Notre Dame cathedral.

Located on the western end of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées (sometimes stylised on tourist maps as Champs Élysées), the Arc de Triomphe’s development was started in 1806 by the order of Napoleon I. This monumental archway is inspired by the great arches of antiquity. Every evening a flame is lit on a tomb of the ‘Unknown Soldier from the Great War’. This monument is both commemorative and symbolic of French history, and a photo op you cannot miss.

The largest and most visited museum in the world, the Louvre is home to the world-renowned Mona Lisa painting by Leonardo da Vinci. It holds a truly unparalleled collection of exhibits that cover the whole spectrum of art throughout history, plus the astonishing Louvre pyramid. Despite its enormous size, the Louvre can easily be explored in around an hour with the help of a handy audio guide.

The Jardin du Luxembourg, otherwise known as Luxembourg Gardens, was created by the widow of King Henry IV, Marie de’ Medici, in 1612. The Luxembourg Gardens span 56.8 acres, featuring many lawns, promenades, tennis courts, and the picturesque Medici Fountain.

Around 12 miles west of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. The estate is made up of the Palace, Park, and Versailles Gardens, which have massively influenced French art, architecture, and horticulture. One of the most emblematic rooms in the Palace of Versailles is the Versailles Hall of Mirrors – a baroque style gallery that faces towards the Palace Gardens where the Treaty of Versailles was signed.

Avignon has some of the best places to discover the cultural heritage and history of both Provence and the wider region. Known for its medieval churches and grand palace, the historical architecture of Avignon is second to none.

Head over to the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe and the residence of the Avignon popes throughout the 14th century. Once a fortress and a palace, this building serves as a celebration of the grandeur of Western Christianity in the Middle Ages.

Monaco is a glamourous city-state in the South of France housing a royal family that goes back as far as the 13th century in the city. Nestled upon a headland jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco has a vibrant mix of luxurious coastal views and spectacular historical buildings.

Not only this, but Monaco is a hub of fashion, splendor, and ‘who’s who’. The area frequently draws large, high-profile and fashionable crowds for its yacht shows, Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, and the Opening Gala at the Opera House.

The area known as the French Riviera is located in the south-eastern quadrant of the South of France. Famous for its mesmerising deep clear blue sea, leafy palm trees, and sandy white beaches, the French Riviera has been a place of paradise for dreamy, luxury stays since the 19th century.

The French Riviera has many resort destinations such as Cannes, Monaco, San-Tropez, and Antibes. However, with its world-famous waterfront promenade, lush green gardens, and aura of relaxation, visiting Nice in particular is a must. There are many things to do in Nice, such as visiting countless art museums and historic old towns, meaning there is sure to be something for everyone.

Marseille (otherwise stylised as the older, anglicised Marseilles) is the oldest city in France and one of the oldest continuously-inhabited places in Europe. The historic authenticity and bustling harbour pay tribute to that, celebrating its rich multicultural heritage.

One of the seaport’s standout ports, the Vieux Port, is still in use today despite being founded in the 6th century BC, with a fish market held every morning to display the latest catch. Explore the seafront of this historic city before sampling the finest bouillabaisse and freshest seafood at one of the world-renowned waterfront restaurants.

The sunlit countryside of Provence is full of quaint seaside villages and cute hilltop towns, as well as slow paced areas that are perfect for relaxing. With vibrant markets, animated fountains, and forever-bustling cafes, Aix-en-Provence will fully immerse every traveller into the lifestyle of southern France.

Take your time to stroll through the tree-lined boulevards and streets, stopping for a coffee and a pastry in one of Aix-en-Provence’s many outdoor roadside cafes, before checking out some post-Impressionist art at the Atelier de Cézanne.

Mont Saint-Michel is a small mainland and island commune, with many tourists flocking to the island every year to visit the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel. The tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel lies just a few hundred metres from land, attracting many pilgrims to walk across the silt at low tide since as early as the 8th century.

Cross the bridge from the mainland onto the island of Mont Saint-Michel, before winding your way up through the La Grande Rue to the Abbey at the summit of the hill. Take a moment to stop off at the Eglise Paroissiale Saint-Pierre on your way up for a tranquil oasis away from the bustling crowds.

There are many museums in Normandy that document the Allied forces landings, covering Operation Overlord from different perspectives. Whether you are a modern history buff or just curious, there are an array of options to choose from.

The Omaha D-Day Landing Beach and Museum houses an important collection of objects from WWII. Omaha Beach is one of the beaches that American, Canadian, English, and French troops landed on in 1944, and a beach that sadly faced one of the largest number of casualties.

Another of the thought-provoking D-Day memorial museums is Caen Memorial Museum, dedicated to the Battle of Normandy and the Normandy Landings. Both exhibitions run all year round, with educational activities, temporary exhibitions, and seasonal events.

One of the fantastic features of Normandy is the coastline that runs along the English Channel facing the English mainland, particularly the chalk cliffs and magnificent natural arches of Étretat that attracted prominent artists such as Claude Monet.

Another stunning area of coastline in Normandy is the Côte Fleurie or ‘Flowery Coast’. Main towns and villages include Honfleur, Cabourg, and Deauville, which is the seaside resort closest to Paris. Deauville in particular is a fantastic place to visit if you are a fan of the Hercule Poirot TV series, which has hosted many episodes thanks to its prominence as a fashionable holiday resort for the international upper class.

The Bayeux Tapestry is exhibited at the Musée de las Tapisserie de Bayeux in Bayeux, Normandy, depicting around seventy scenes of the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England, which culminated in the Battle of Hastings.

The Bayeux Tapestry also established Mont Saint-Michel as a definitive part of Normandy, as Harold Godwinson is pictured rescuing two knights from the quicksand of the tidal flats during a battle with the Duke of Brittany. The monastery of Mont Saint-Michel supported William the Conqueror’s claim to the English throne, for which they were rewarded with land in England (namely the Norman priory St Michael’s Mount in Penzance).

Normandy boasts many dramatic châteaux. Halfway between the previously mentioned Caen and D-Day Landing beaches is the historic and dramatic Château de Fontaine-Henry, overlooking a green valley. Another incredible example is Château Gaillard, the most dramatic sight along the Seine that was once home to Richard the Lionheart.

After being handed over to the English, Joan of Arc was charged with heresy on account of her Divine visions and wearing men’s clothing to fight in battle. Joan was imprisoned in the château of Philippe-Augustein Rouen on Christmas Day 1430. Joan was put on trial in February, sentenced to death. After recanting a few months later, Joan’s sentence was reduced to life imprisonment. However, just the next Sunday, Joan was tricked and condemned to death a second time at the archbishop’s chapel in rue St-Romain, Rouen.

Ultimately, Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in Place du Vieux-Marché, Rouen, on May 30th, 1431. Joan passed into legend, was canonised in 1920 and quickly became France’s patron saint. Today, you can visit the modern Église Jeanne d’Arc, built in the spot where Joan was burned at the stake.

The absolute highlight of the French Alps - if you are so inclined - is the extensive quantity and breadth of skiing and snowboarding resorts. Notably, there are two resorts that are particularly exceptional for their perfect runs.

Chamonix, situated near Mont Blanc, is internationally renowned as a fantastic ski resort, guaranteed to give you some of the best skiing experiences in Europe. The second, Val d’Isère has always been a favourite for skiers due to its numerous ski lifts and cableways that allow you to navigate the enormous terrain. In fact, it is so big that it has 159 ski slopes, giving you the option to do a different run every time.

If you aren’t into snow sports, you can still enjoy the Alpine scenery from the comfort of your car. Take a driving tour along the Route Napoléon itinerary, weaving through the roads of the French Alps between Gap and Grenoble. This route covers the four lakes of Laffrey that inhabit the barren plateau of Matésine. It was here that Napoleon won against a battalion in 1815, hence its name.

There is also plenty to do during the summer, or in the towns and villages that aren’t as high as to be adorned with snow. Popular summer activities in the French Alps include mountaineering, rock climbing, and when you get to the top, of course, gliding!

The French Alps is also an amazing place to go for a hike, bike ride, or even a leisurely stroll. Take a gander along the blooming lakeside promenade and the shores of the crystal lakes in Annecy, or wander through the luscious green parks and gardens of Grenoble.

For something more adventurous, head to Vercors Regional Natural Park to partake in a spot of hiking, biking and even horseback riding to ascend to the dreamy peaks. Or go explore the unspoiled nature reserve and Alpine snow-capped peaks of the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, complete with fragrant pine trees and graceful waterfalls.

With the English Channel to the north, Bay of Biscay to the south, and the Celtic Sea and Atlantic Ocean to the west, Brittany has a scenic coastline that stretches for more than 1,000 miles. Though we might typically think of the South of France as the ideal beach holiday destination, Brittany also has a variety of beaches to suit every seaside holiday.

For family holidays, spend a day on the Plage de l’Écluse, or try the Plage de Trestraou for sand worthy of a sandcastle. For surfing and watersports check out Saint Tugen and Saint-Pierre-Quiberon, whereas La Palue and Les Canons are more remote and quiet for relaxing. The best coastal views go to the Baie des Trespasses, and the most dramatic would be Ile Vierge. Can’t decide? Get a bit of everything at the Plage du Sillon.

Breton crêpes and galettes are definitely the best-known speciality from this region of France, so get yourself to a crêperie to enjoy this important social aspect of French gastronomy. Brittany is also famous for its oyster production, with a reputation for their exceptional quality. Enjoy some Breton oysters all year round at a bay-front restaurant over ice with a squeeze of lemon and accompanied by a glass of dry white wine.

Brittany’s past is full of ancient folklore, myths, and mysticism that dates back to Roman and early Christian occupations. Take a look at the Carnac stones, or Carnac alignments, more than 3,000 standing stones erected by the pre-Celtic Bretons as early as 4500 BC.

One myth about these stones is that they were pagan soldiers who were turned to stone by Pope Cornelius. Another myth brings in the local Arthurian cycle, claiming that they are a Roman legion turned to stone by Merlin!

Bordeaux is the world capital of wine and the second-largest wine growing region on the planet, so it would be rude not to sample some local Bordeaux wine and French wine varieties that the region has to offer. The best way to do so is to take a tour around the gorgeous vineyards in the grounds of showstopping châteaux.

For those wine connoisseurs or self-confessed oenophiles, indulge your curiosity at the ultra modern La Cité du Vin. This high-tech museum has ten hours of audiovisual material that will teach you all about the history of wine, and where and how it gets made. Finish your day out with a glass of wine at the top floor bar for stunning views of Bordeaux and the Garonne.

Bordeaux is home to over 350 historic monuments, but the most breathtaking of them all is Bordeaux Cathedral, or Cathédrale Saint-André in French. This cathedral has been visited by pilgrims and travellers alike for centuries, formally designated as a stop on the Routes of Santiago de Compostela alongside two other Bordelaise churches.

As Bordeaux has such a rich history and cultural heritage, it is worth paying a visit to the nearby Musée d’Aquitaine, which does a good job of condensing the city’s vibrant history into various exhibitions for you to leisurely stroll through or have a whistle-stop tour.

Bordeaux is a prime example of architecture from the Age of Enlightenment with its impressive blond and golden facades, majestic courtyards, monumental squares, lively streets, and blooming French-style gardens.

To truly experience the architectural heritage of Bordeaux, pay a visit to Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror that faces opposite for an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. Also worth a visit are the fragments of the old walls at Porte Cailhau, the Esplande des Quinconces, Jardin Public, and, of course, the Grande Théâtre de Bordeaux.

In addition to delicious wine, Bordeaux is also one of the world centres of gastronomy owing to its unique cultural identity and rich and sophisticated cuisine. For the perfect meal, start with a steak with Bordelaise sauce (made with its famous red wine), the staple sauce demi-glace, butter, and shallots. Finish with the famous Bordeaux Pastries called Canelés which make a perfect dessert with tea or champagne.

The Loire Valley is the stuff of storybooks, with soft, pillowy green scenery, and romantic, majestic châteaux that perch atop the grass, surrounded by trickling water like fairy-tale castles. This stretch of vineyards and villages is enough to capture the imagination of creatives, artists, and travellers alike.

Of the forty-two castles that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site, we have whittled it down to the six châteaux you cannot miss. Our top picks are the Château de Chambord, Château d’Ussé, Château de Chenonceau, Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, Château du Clos-Lucé, and Château de Blois. You can find out more about each of these majestic chateaus in our Loire Valley travel guide.

The Loire Valley has a fascinating medieval past and Gothic architecture that can be seen in the articulated facades and rounded towers. If you are interested in medieval history, it is definitely worth exploring the medieval town of Ambrose, and the cities of Tours and Orléans.

Take a dip on one of Corsica’s world-famous sandy beaches, slipping into the crystal clear, turquoise waters of the sea, or one of the island’s many rivers, mountain streams, and inland rock pools. The Porto Vecchio region has some of the best and most accessible beaches on the island, which is why it is Corsica’s number one tourist region.

Corsica has a number of trails that are suitable for all abilities, traversing all kinds of landscapes from the coastline to the inland mountains. The most famous of these is the GR20 Trail, arguably the best hiking trail in Europe. Some of these hidden gems can only be reached on foot, such as the Calanques de Piana, but you could also take up cycling or horseback riding.

Sat atop some of Corsica’s rocky and rugged outcrops are their magnificent citadels, casting a watchful eye over the cities below. Some of these fortresses have been fending off multiple threats, armies, and invasions for millennia. The two must-see citadels across the entire island are the Bonifacio Citadel and the Calvi Citadel.