Things to Do in France：From Paris to Provence & Beyond

Looking for unforgettable things to do in France? Discover 2025's ultimate guide featuring Parisian landmarks, Provence lavender fields, French Riviera beaches, and Alpine adventures. From Louvre masterpieces to Loire Valley châteaux, we cover must-see attractions and local secrets!

France, often hailed as the "land of love," is a country that captivates travelers with its rich history, diverse landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant culture. As a local resident, I'm excited to share with you an extensive guide on things to do in France, covering various aspects such as regions, cuisine, landmarks, seasons, and art. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this guide will help you discover the best of France.

1. Things to Do in France: By Region

1.1 Paris: The City of Light

• Visit the Eiffel Tower: No trip to France is complete without a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Take the elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
• Explore the Louvre Museum: Home to thousands of art pieces, including the Mona Lisa, the Louvre is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
• Stroll Along the Seine River: Enjoy a leisurely walk or a boat ride along the Seine, passing by famous landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Discover Montmartre: This charming neighborhood is known for its bohemian vibe, art studios, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
• Shop on the Champs-Élysées: Indulge in some retail therapy on this famous avenue, lined with luxury boutiques and cafes.
• Experience the Nightlife: Paris comes alive at night, with numerous bars, clubs, and theaters offering entertainment for all tastes.

1.2 Provence: A Taste of the South

• Visit the Luberon Valley: Explore the picturesque villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and Lourmarin, known for their stunning landscapes and vibrant markets.
• Enjoy the Lavender Fields: During the summer months, the lavender fields of Provence are a sight to behold, offering a sensory delight.
• Explore the Camargue Regional Park: This unique ecosystem is home to flamingos, wild horses, and a variety of bird species.
• Taste Local Wines: Provence is famous for its rosé wines, and a visit to a local vineyard is a must for wine lovers.
• Visit the Pont du Gard: This ancient Roman aqueduct is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to Roman engineering.
• Relax on the Beaches: The Mediterranean coast of Provence offers beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters for swimming and sunbathing.

1.3 Brittany: A Coastal Paradise

• Explore the Pink Granite Coast: This unique coastline is known for its pink granite rocks and stunning cliffs, offering a dramatic landscape.
• Visit the Mont-Saint-Michel: This medieval abbey perched on a rocky islet is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction.
• Discover the Megalithic Sites: Brittany is home to numerous prehistoric stone structures, including the Carnac Stones, which are a mystery to this day.
• Taste Local Seafood: Brittany is famous for its fresh seafood, including oysters, mussels, and lobster, which can be enjoyed at local restaurants.
• Explore the Brocéliande Forest: This mythical forest is associated with the Arthurian legends and offers a magical setting for hiking and exploration.
• Attend a Fest-Noz: This traditional Breton dance festival is a great way to experience the local culture and music.

1.4 Alsace: A Blend of Cultures

• Visit Strasbourg: The capital of Alsace is known for its beautiful half-timbered houses, the Strasbourg Cathedral, and the European Parliament.
• Explore the Wine Route: Alsace is famous for its white wines, and a drive along the Wine Route offers a chance to taste some of the best.
• Visit Colmar: This charming town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the Little Venice canal district, and the Unterlinden Museum.
• Taste Local Cuisine: Alsace offers a unique blend of French and German influences, with dishes like choucroute (sauerkraut), tarte flambée (flammekueche), and kougelhopf (a type of cake).
• Visit the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: This medieval castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the region's history.
• Explore the Vosges Mountains: These mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and cycling.

1.5 Corsica: The Island of Beauty

• Visit Calvi: This charming town is known for its citadel, the beaches of Révellata, and the nearby Scandola Nature Reserve.
• Explore the GR20 Trail: This famous hiking trail offers a challenging but rewarding experience through Corsica's rugged mountains.
• Visit the Filitosa Megalithic Site: This prehistoric site is home to numerous standing stones and offers a glimpse into Corsica's ancient history.
• Taste Local Cheese: Corsica is famous for its cheese, including brocciu (a fresh cheese made from ewe's milk) and casgiu merzu (a strong, pungent cheese).
• Visit the Bonifacio Citadel: This medieval citadel is perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and offers stunning views.
• Relax on the Beaches: Corsica offers numerous beautiful beaches, including Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, and Rondinara.

2. Things to Do in France: By Cuisine

2.1 French Classics

• Taste Coq au Vin: This traditional dish of chicken cooked in red wine is a staple of French cuisine.
• Enjoy Bouillabaisse: This fish stew from Marseille is a delicious and hearty meal, often served with rouille (a garlic and saffron mayonnaise).
• Try Ratatouille: This vegetable stew from Provence is a healthy and flavorful dish, perfect for vegetarians.
• Sample Confit de Canard: This dish of duck confit is a specialty of the southwest region, with tender meat and crispy skin.
• Indulge in Crème Brûlée: This classic French dessert is a creamy custard topped with a layer of caramelized sugar.
• Taste Macarons: These colorful almond cookies are a French specialty, with a variety of flavors to choose from.

2.2 Regional Specialties

• Visit Lyon for Lyonnaise Cuisine: Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon offers a variety of dishes, including quenelles (dumplings), andouillette (a type of sausage), and tarte aux pralines (a pink praline tart).
• Explore the Cuisine of Normandy: This region is famous for its dairy products, including Camembert cheese, and dishes like moules à la crème normande (mussels in cream sauce).
• Taste the Cuisine of the Basque Country: This region offers a unique blend of French and Spanish influences, with dishes like piperade (a tomato and pepper stew) and axoa (a beef and pepper stew).
• Visit the Loire Valley for Trout: The Loire Valley is known for its trout dishes, often served with a cream sauce and accompanied by local wines.
• Explore the Cuisine of Burgundy: This region is famous for its beef dishes, including boeuf bourguignon (beef stewed in red wine), and its snails, often served with garlic butter.
• Taste the Cuisine of the Alps: The Alps offer a variety of hearty dishes, including fondue (melted cheese), raclette (melted cheese with potatoes and cured meats), and tartiflette (a potato and cheese gratin).

2.3 Wine and Cheese

• Visit a Champagne House: The Champagne region is famous for its sparkling wine, and a visit to a champagne house offers a chance to taste some of the best.
• Explore the Wine Regions of Bordeaux: Bordeaux is known for its red wines, and a tour of the vineyards offers a chance to learn about the winemaking process and taste some of the region's finest wines.
• Taste Local Cheeses: France is famous for its cheeses, with over 1,000 varieties to choose from. Some must-try cheeses include Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, and Comté.
• Visit a Cheese Farm: Many cheese farms in France offer tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about the cheese-making process and sample some of the freshest cheeses.
• Pair Wine and Cheese: France offers a perfect opportunity to pair local wines with cheeses, creating a delicious and authentic culinary experience.
• Attend a Wine and Cheese Festival: Many regions in France host wine and cheese festivals, offering a chance to taste a variety of wines and cheeses and enjoy live music and entertainment.

3. Things to Do in France: By Landmarks

3.1 Historical Landmarks

• Visit the Palace of Versailles: This opulent palace was the residence of French kings and queens, and its gardens and fountains are a sight to behold.
• Explore the Château de Chambord: This Renaissance castle in the Loire Valley is known for its double-helix staircase and stunning architecture.
• Visit the Arc de Triomphe: This monument in Paris honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
• Explore the Mont-Saint-Michel: As mentioned earlier, this medieval abbey on a rocky islet is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction.
• Visit the Pont du Gard: This ancient Roman aqueduct is a testament to Roman engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore the Carcassonne Citadel: This medieval fortified city in the south of France is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the region's history.

3.2 Cultural Landmarks

• Visit the Louvre Museum: As mentioned earlier, the Louvre is home to thousands of art pieces, including the Mona Lisa, and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
• Explore the Musée d'Orsay: This museum in Paris is dedicated to French art from 1848 to 1914, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
• Visit the Centre Pompidou: This modern art museum in Paris is known for its unique architecture and its collection of contemporary art.
• Explore the Château de Fontainebleau: This palace in the Île-de-France region is known for its Renaissance architecture and its association with Napoleon Bonaparte.
• Visit the Opéra Garnier: This historic opera house in Paris is known for its opulent interior and its association with the Phantom of the Opera.
• Explore the Château de Chenonceau: This Renaissance castle in the Loire Valley is known for its beautiful gardens and its association with the French royal family.

3.3 Natural Landmarks

• Visit the Mont Blanc Massif: This mountain range in the Alps is the highest in Europe and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.
• Explore the Calanques National Park: This park near Marseille offers stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
• Visit the Gorges du Verdon: This canyon in Provence is known for its turquoise waters and its dramatic cliffs, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing.
• Explore the Camargue Regional Park: As mentioned earlier, this unique ecosystem is home to flamingos, wild horses, and a variety of bird species.
• Visit the Purple Islands: These islands in the Mediterranean Sea near Marseille are known for their purple rocks and their unique geology.
• Explore the Lac du Bourget: This lake in the Savoie region is the largest natural lake in France and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, sailing, and fishing.

4. Things to Do in France: By Season

4.1 Spring

• Visit the Flower Markets: Spring is the perfect time to visit the flower markets in France, where you can find a variety of fresh flowers and plants.
• Explore the Gardens: Many gardens in France come alive in spring, with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Some must-visit gardens include the Jardin des Tuileries in Paris and the Jardin du Luxembourg.
• Attend a Festival: Spring is a popular time for festivals in France, including the Fête de la Musique (Music Festival) and the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) in Lyon.
• Enjoy Outdoor Activities: With the warmer weather, spring is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and picnicking.
• Visit the Beaches: While the water may still be a bit chilly, spring is a great time to visit the beaches and enjoy the scenery.
• Taste Spring Produce: Spring is the season for fresh produce like asparagus, strawberries, and artichokes, which can be enjoyed at local markets and restaurants.

4.2 Summer

• Relax on the Beaches: Summer is the perfect time to visit the beaches in France, with warm waters and sunny skies. Some must-visit beaches include the Côte d'Azur, the Atlantic Coast, and the Mediterranean Coast.
• Attend a Music Festival: Summer is a popular time for music festivals in France, including the Rock en Seine festival in Paris and the Vieilles Charrues festival in Brittany.
• Explore the Countryside: Summer is a great time to explore the countryside in France, with lush greenery and blooming flowers. Some must-visit regions include Provence, the Loire Valley, and the Dordogne.
• Enjoy Water Sports: With the warm waters, summer is a great time to enjoy water sports like swimming, surfing, and sailing.
• Visit the Amusement Parks: France is home to several amusement parks, including Disneyland Paris and Parc Astérix, which are popular during the summer months.
• Taste Summer Produce: Summer is the season for fresh produce like tomatoes, peaches, and melons, which can be enjoyed at local markets and restaurants.

4.3 Autumn

• Visit the Vineyards: Autumn is the harvest season in France, and a visit to a vineyard offers a chance to see the grapes being picked and to taste some of the year's best wines.
• Explore the Forests: Autumn is a great time to explore the forests in France, with the changing leaves creating a colorful landscape. Some must-visit forests include the Fontainebleau Forest and the Perche Regional Natural Park.
• Attend a Food Festival: Autumn is a popular time for food festivals in France, including the Foire de Lyon (Lyon Fair) and the Salon du Chocolat (Chocolate Show) in Paris.
• Enjoy Hiking: With the cooler weather, autumn is a great time to enjoy hiking in the mountains or in the countryside.
• Visit the Museums: Autumn is a great time to visit the museums in France, with fewer crowds and more time to explore the exhibits.
• Taste Autumn Produce: Autumn is the season for fresh produce like mushrooms, chestnuts, and apples, which can be enjoyed at local markets and restaurants.

4.4 Winter

• Visit the Ski Resorts: Winter is the perfect time to visit the ski resorts in France, with snow-covered slopes and a variety of winter sports activities. Some must-visit ski resorts include Chamonix, Val d'Isère, and Courchevel.
• Attend a Christmas Market: Winter is a popular time for Christmas markets in France, where you can find a variety of holiday decorations, gifts, and food. Some must-visit Christmas markets include the Strasbourg Christmas Market and the Lille Christmas Market.
• Explore the Cities: Winter is a great time to explore the cities in France, with the holiday lights and decorations creating a festive atmosphere. Some must-visit cities include Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux.
• Enjoy Indoor Activities: With the colder weather, winter is a great time to enjoy indoor activities like visiting museums, attending concerts, or shopping at local boutiques.
• Visit the Spas: Winter is a great time to visit the spas in France, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters.
• Taste Winter Produce: Winter is the season for fresh produce like truffles, oysters, and game, which can be enjoyed at local markets and restaurants.

5. Things to Do in France: By Art

5.1 Visual Arts

• Visit the Louvre Museum: As mentioned earlier, the Louvre is home to thousands of art pieces, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
• Explore the Musée d'Orsay: This museum in Paris is dedicated to French art from 1848 to 1914, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
• Visit the Centre Pompidou: This modern art museum in Paris is known for its unique architecture and its collection of contemporary art.
• Explore the Château de Chambord: This Renaissance castle in the Loire Valley is known for its stunning architecture and its association with the French royal family.
• Visit the Musée Rodin: This museum in Paris is dedicated to the works of Auguste Rodin, including his famous sculpture "The Thinker."
• Explore the Musée Picasso: This museum in Paris is dedicated to the works of Pablo Picasso, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings.

5.2 Performing Arts

• Visit the Opéra Garnier: As mentioned earlier, this historic opera house in Paris is known for its opulent interior and its association with the Phantom of the Opera.
• Attend a Ballet Performance: France is famous for its ballet, and attending a performance at the Opéra Garnier or another venue is a must-do for art lovers.
• Visit the Théâtre du Châtelet: This theater in Paris is known for its variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and theater.
• Attend a Concert: France is home to many famous musicians and bands, and attending a concert is a great way to experience the local music scene.
• Visit the Festival d'Avignon: This annual theater festival in Avignon is one of the largest in the world and offers a variety of performances, including theater, dance, and music.
• Explore the Cité de la Musique: This music museum in Paris is dedicated to the history of music and offers a variety of exhibits and performances.

5.3 Literature

• Visit the Maison de Victor Hugo: This museum in Paris is dedicated to the life and works of Victor Hugo, including his famous novel "Les Misérables."
• Explore the Shakespeare and Company Bookstore: This iconic bookstore in Paris is a haven for book lovers, with a variety of books, including rare and out-of-print editions.
• Visit the Musée de la Littérature Française: This museum in Paris is dedicated to the history of French literature and offers a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
• Attend a Literary Festival: France is home to many literary festivals, including the Salon du Livre de Paris (Paris Book Fair) and the Festival de la Bande Dessinée d'Angoulême (Angoulême International Comics Festival).
• Explore the Cité du Vin: This wine museum in Bordeaux is dedicated to the history of wine and offers a variety of exhibits and tastings.
• Visit the Musée des Arts et Métiers: This museum in Paris is dedicated to the history of science and technology and offers a variety of exhibits and artifacts.

6. Q&A: Common Questions About Things to Do in France

6.1 What activities do people do in France?

People in France engage in a wide variety of activities, depending on their interests and the time of year. Some popular activities include visiting historical landmarks, exploring the countryside, enjoying the cuisine, attending festivals, and participating in outdoor sports like hiking, skiing, and cycling. Additionally, France is famous for its art and culture, with many museums, theaters, and music venues offering a variety of performances and exhibits.

6.2 What are the 5 famous things in France?

Here's a table ranking the 5 most famous things in France based on their popularity and significance:

Rank	Thing to Do in France	Description
1	Eiffel Tower	The iconic symbol of Paris and France, offering breathtaking views of the city.
2	Louvre Museum	Home to thousands of art pieces, including the Mona Lisa, and a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
3	Palace of Versailles	This opulent palace was the residence of French kings and queens, and its gardens and fountains are a sight to behold.
4	Côte d'Azur	This Mediterranean coastline is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
5	French Cuisine	France is famous for its cuisine, with a variety of dishes, wines, and cheeses to enjoy.

6.3 Is 7 days enough in France?

Whether 7 days is enough in France depends on your interests and the regions you plan to visit. France is a large and diverse country, with many regions offering unique experiences. If you're planning to visit multiple regions or want to explore the country in depth, 7 days may not be enough. However, if you're focusing on one or two regions and want to experience the highlights, 7 days can be a good starting point. It's important to plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize the things you want to see and do.

6.4 What to do in France for a day?

If you only have one day in France, here are some suggestions for things to do:

• Visit Paris: Spend the day exploring the city's famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Visit the Loire Valley: Take a day trip to the Loire Valley and visit one or two of the region's famous castles, such as Château de Chambord or Château de Chenonceau.
• Visit Provence: Take a day trip to Provence and explore the picturesque villages, such as Gordes or Roussillon, and enjoy the lavender fields (in season).
• Visit the French Riviera: Take a day trip to the French Riviera and enjoy the beaches, the views, and the vibrant nightlife.
• Visit a Local Market: Spend the day exploring a local market, tasting local produce, and shopping for souvenirs.
• Visit a Wine Vineyard: Take a day trip to a local vineyard and learn about the winemaking process, taste some of the region's finest wines, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

In conclusion, France offers a wealth of things to do, from exploring historical landmarks and enjoying the cuisine to attending festivals and participating in outdoor activities. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this guide will help you discover the best of France and create unforgettable memories.