Looking to prepare a holiday in France and don’t know what you can do here, as a tourist? Get ready for a place you experience, not just explore. You can sip wine in centuries-old cellars, stand on windswept cliffs, have a romantic dinner or get amazed by mountain viewpoints. France is made for every traveler who truly wants to feel where they are.
This guide brings together the most interesting, iconic and memorable things to do in France. It mixes world-famous experiences with hands-on activities, cultural moments and nature escapes. Some are must-dos for first-time visitors; others are activities that make repeat trips richer and more personal.
Whether you’re planning your first journey or returning to see this country through a different lens, this list is designed to help you find what suits you best. Let’s see why this Europe’s gem captivates travelers again and again.
Discover interesting things to do in France
The activities and experiences you’ll find here are incredibly varied. You can immerse yourself in royal history and famous museums, then shift gears completely and hike alpine trails. Food is never just food here – it’s culture, identify, a reason to slow down and enjoy every flavor and texture.
Some experiences are grand and unforgettable; others are simple but deeply memorable. Together, they paint a picture of a country meant to be explored with curiosity and intention. So, if you want to know what are the best things to do in France, it’s best to prepare yourself with enough time and a lot of excitement.
What is France known for
France is known for far more than its famous attractions, like museums and monuments. It’s known for how it lives. For turning everyday moments into rituals and for valuing beauty in both grand masterpieces and simple details. Travelers come here for different reasons, but what they remember most is the feeling of being here.
Here’s a breakdown of attractions in France that made this country so popular:
| Attractions | Description |
| Exceptional food culture | Eating is an experience in itself: fresh market shopping, regional dishes and the famous cheese types, neighborhood bistros, and meals that are meant to be enjoyed slowly |
| Wine and terroir | France’s wine culture is deeply connected to place, offering vineyard visits, cellar tastings, wine routes and the chance to understand how soil, climate and tradition shape flavor |
| History and heritage | Some of the top things to do in France are related to exploring ancient sites, medieval towns and royal landmarks |
| Architectural contrast | The country showcases centuries of architecture side by side, from Gothic churches and royal palaces to bold modern buildings |
| Diverse landscapes | Tourists can explore or just admire mountains, coastlines, countryside, gorges, and islands often within the same trip |
Top 60 interesting and fun things to do in France
You’ll find here not just a list of things to do, but a carefully curated journey through the most rewarding activities every tourist should consider. They offer inspiration for every travel style, season and pace, helping you choose something that turns a simple trip into something worth reliving.
Discover beautiful activities to do in France on your own or with your family and friends:
1. Ride up the Eiffel Tower to enjoy beautiful Paris
If you want a panoramic view over Paris, then you should take the courage and ride up the Eiffel Tower. This is one of the most iconic landmarks of France and a defining moment for many first-time visitors. As the elevator ascends, Paris slowly opens up beneath you – Haussmannian boulevards, the winding Seine and the dense patchwork of rooftops. These give the city its unmistakable character.
From the second floor, the views are detailed and immersive, making it ideal for understanding the city’s layout. Continuing to the summit offers a broader, more dramatic panorama that feels quieter and romantic, especially in the early morning or just before sunset.
Here’re some useful things to know about the Eiffel Tower:
- Ticket prices (adult): from approximately €23.50 for the second floor by lift and €36.70 for summit access by lift
- Visit duration: plan 1.5 to 2 hours depending on queues and how long you stay at each level
- Levels you can access: ground level, first floor, second floor, and summit (subject to weather and operational conditions)
- Booking advice: tickets are frequently sold out several days in advance during high season, so advance booking is recommended
- Best time to go: early morning for fewer crowds or around sunset for views by daylight and night
2. Discover Mont Saint-Michel’s tidal island setting
Experiencing Mont Saint-Michel is as much about timing as it is about place. Rising from vast tidal flats, this medieval abbey appears to float when the tide comes in. This creates one of France’s most dramatic natural and architectural scenes.
Walking through the steep streets toward the abbey feels like stepping into another century. Inside, the abbey’s halls, cloisters and viewpoints reveal its long history as a pilgrimage site and fortress. When the island is completely surrounded by water, the experience becomes truly unforgettable.
Key information to know if you want to enjoy this activity:
- The abbey ticket price starts around €13 depending on the season and time
- Free entry is available for visitors under 18 and for 18–25-year-olds who are EU residents or long-term residents in France
- Plan 3-5 hours to explore both the abbey and the village at a relaxed pace
- The abbey is generally open May 1st – August 31st from 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM and September 1st – April 30th from 9:30AM – 6:00 PM
- Mid-day and peak summer months are super busy; arriving early or later in the afternoon usually means fewer people
3. Spend a royal day wandering Versailles
Spending a full day at the Palace of Versailles goes far beyond admiring gilded rooms. It’s a way to experience royal power, ceremony and daily life at the height of the French monarchy. This definitely sits among the top 10 things to do in France for every tourist.
After touring the palace interiors, you can see the gardens with their fountains, groves and long perspectives. They are designed to impress and control nature itself. Renting a bike or rowing on the Grand Canal adds a relaxed, even playful dimension to the day.
If you’re planning to take a picture at this iconic palace and discover its mysteries, here’re some things you should know:
- The Palace and Trianon are open Tuesday – Sunday, usually 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- The best time to go is on weekdays, especially Wednesdays or Fridays and early morning slots help you avoid the busiest crowds
- The passport ticket prices as of 2026 are approximately €35 standard and €32 for EU/EEA residents in high season. In low season the prices are about €22/€25
- Free admission is available for visitors under 18 and EU/EEA residents under 26
- Start at the Palace when it opens, then explore the Gardens, Trianon Estate, Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon and Queen’s Hamlet later in the day
4. Put a cabaret show on your list with things to do in France
Pick a day or two to see shows at venues like Moulin Rouge or Paradis Latin. A Parisian cabaret night is a celebration of spectacles and performance. You’ll find here a combination of dance, music, humor, and elaborate costumes presented in a high-energy setting. Cabaret is glamorous and quite theatrical, so it’s ideal for special occasions or a memorable night out in Paris.
5. Take a Seine cruise when the city lights turn on
If you’re looking for less energetic and more calming things to do France, cruising the Seine River at night offers you exactly what you wish for. Even a short evening cruise allows you to rest your feet while still taking in major sights. This could be a perfect way to end a busy day of sightseeing.
6. See world-famous art at the Louvre Museum
Have you ever thought about seeing Mona Lisa in real life? This is your opportunity to finally do it. This beautiful and popular art piece lies in the heart of the Louvre Museum, a monument as impressive as its collections and architecture. It was once a royal palace, and today it layers medieval remains, Renaissance spaces and vast 19th-century galleries.
The ticket price is around €22 when purchased online. Tourists from outside EU/EEA may pay a higher rate (around €32) starting early 2026 as part of a new pricing policy. You can also buy tickets on arrival when attendance is low, however queues can be long without reservation.
The opening hours are:
- 9:00 AM–6:00 PM: Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
- 9:00 AM–9:00 PM (extended): Wednesday and Friday
- Closed: Tuesdays and certain public holidays like January 1st or December 25th
7. What to do in France as a history lover
This country is especially rewarding for travelers interested in history and cultural evolution. Museums like the Musée d’Orsay offer insight into 19th-century society through art, while the Centre Pompidou explores modern and contemporary movements. Together, these experiences and France activities show how the country reinvents itself while remaining deeply connected to its past.
8. Spend quality time on the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur)
Experiencing the French Riviera is about embracing a slower, sun-driven rhythm. Days often revolve around seaside walks, market visits, relaxed lunches and time spent near the water. Staying in Nice allows easy access to beaches, coastal paths, hilltop viewpoints and nearby towns. So, you should definitely put this on your list with activities.
9. Go hiking or kayaking in Gorges du Verdon
Outdoor enthusiasts will find striking natural activities in France in the Gorges du Verdon. Kayaking through a calm turquoise water beneath towering limestone cliffs is both peaceful and dynamic. Hiking trails above the gorge reveal panoramic sights, adding a sense of adventure and contrast to a trip focused on cities and culture.
10. Walk picturesque towns and discover more French attractions
The charm of this country often lies in everyday scenery. For example, walking along the canals of Annecy or photographing lavender fields in Provence captures its softer side. These experiences reward slow travel, observation and easy exploration.
11. Explore the royal tombs and Gothic origins at Saint-Denis
The Basilica of Saint-Denis is where Gothic architecture first took shape. Walking among the tombs of French kings and queens offers a direct connection to centuries of monarchy and national history. It’s just a memorable activity you cannot miss when visiting France.
12. Walk the D-Day coastline
Normandy’s D-Day beaches bring history into sharp focus. Here, the landscape may feel peaceful today. But walking along the shores reveals a very different past. Memorials, cemeteries and preserved landing sites help visitors understand what happened here and why it mattered.
13. Climb Sacré-Coeur steps and enjoy street music in Montmartre
As you make your way upward to Sacré-Coeur, the city opens up behind you and offers wide views over Paris rooftops. Once at the top, many people pause sitting on the steps, enjoying the scenery and taking in the energy of the area.
Montmartre feels different from the rest of Paris. Wandering here is super slow and a perfect opportunity to enjoy a more bohemian side of the city. Street musicians play nearby, artists sketch portraits and small cafés line the surrounding streets.
14. Things to do in France: embrace in a French immersion program
One of the best ways for people to learn more about this country, its life and its beauties is to join French immersion programs for adults. These programs combine language classes with everyday activities and help travelers understand how French life works in real situations.
Learning the language makes simple moments more rewarding. For example, you can order a coffee, shop at a market or have short conversations with locals. Immersion offers a deeper connection to the culture and often leave people feeling more confident and independent during their stay.
15. Follow a cider-and-Calvados tasting loop in Normandy
The countryside in Normandy is closely tied to apples and exploring the region through cider and Calvados tasting routes is super relaxing. Driving from one small producer to another allows you to see orchards, traditional farms, and rural landscapes along the way. Many producers welcome visitors, explain how their cider is made and offer tastings on site.
16. Follow the Loire Valley by bike
Cycling through the Loire Valley is a relaxed way to experience France’s countryside. It combines gentle landscapes with cultural highlights. The region is crossed by La Loire à Vélo, which is a well-marked cycling route that follows the Loire River. It also connects towns, villages and historic sites.
Along the way, you can pass vineyards, riverbanks and small towns where it’s easy to stop for a meal or a break.
17. Fly in a hot-air balloon over the Valley
Drifting quietly above the Loire Valley in a hot-air balloon offers a completely different way to experience this iconic region. As the balloon rises with the early morning light, rivers, forests and château rooftops slowly come into view. Flights usually take place at sunrise, when weather conditions are most stable.
From above, the landscape feels open and balanced, with the Loire River winding naturally. The ride is peaceful rather than thrilling, making it suitable for those who prefer gentle adventures.
18. Admire the white cliffs of Étretat from coastal trails
Among the top tourist attractions in France are the white chalk cliffs of Étretat, offering some of the most striking coastal scenery in the country. Walking along the clifftop trails reveals dramatic arches, rock formations, and wide views over the English Channel. The scenery changes with the light and weather, making each walk feel rewarding for photographers and nature lovers alike.
19. Take a cable car up to Aiguille du Midi in the Alps
Riding the cable car to Aiguille du Midi is one of the most dramatic mountain journeys accessible without technical climbing. Departing from Chamonix, the cable car ascends rapidly to a high-altitude viewpoint in the Mont Blanc massif. At the top, you can step onto panoramic terraces that overlook glaciers and surrounding peaks.
20. Explore the Camargue among flamingos and white horses
The Camargue is a super vast region, known for its unique wildlife and open landscapes. Exploring the area allows tourists to see pink flamingos in their natural habitat and the famous white Camargue horses that roam freely across marshes and plains. The region can be discovered on foot, by bike, or on horseback.
21. Join a tasty food tour in Lyon
Every trip to France should have a day dedicated to food, so taking part in a food tour in Lyon is an excellent way to spend yours. Guided tours here typically focus on traditional dishes, local ingredients, and regional specialties. They often include stops at small shops, markets and eateries, allowing visitors to taste and learn at the same time.
22. Follow the Alsace Wine Route through vineyard villages
The Alsace Wine Route runs through a chain of vineyard villages between Strasbourg and Colmar. Following this route allows travelers to discover Alsace’s wine traditions alongside its distinctive architecture and landscapes. Many villages along the route are small and walkable, with wineries offering tastings directly from producers.
23. Walk among the Carnac standing stones
If you’re into prehistoric mysteries and landmarks, then you should walk among the Carnac Stones. Thousands of standing stones stretch across the landscape, arranged in long alignments whose purpose remains uncertain. You can explore designated areas on foot and learn more about the site through nearby exhibitions.
The entire experience is quiet and contemplative. It encourages people to slow down and reflect on the scale and mystery of these ancient monuments.
24. Relax in a historic thermal spa town like Vichy
Spending time in Vichy introduces visitors to France’s long tradition of thermal spa culture. The town developed around natural mineral springs that have been used for wellness treatments for centuries. Today, people can enjoy modern spa facilities while also exploring elegant architecture, parks, and riverside walks. You can combine relaxation with culture discovery in a calm and refined setting.
25. Explore the Calanques of Marseille-Cassis
The Calanques National Park is known for its steep limestone cliffs, narrow inlets, and clear Mediterranean water. Exploring this area on foot or by boat reveals a series of secluded coves, framed by rugged rock formations. Hiking trails connect different calanques and offer elevated views, while boat trips provide access to areas that are difficult to reach on land.
26. Hike the Sentier des Douaniers in Britanny
The Sentier des Douaniers, also known as the GR34, follows Brittany’s coastline for over two thousand kilometers. Originally used by customs officers, the path now offers one of the most scenic long-distance walks in France. Hikers can choose short sections or longer stretches, passing cliffs, beaches, small ports and coastal villages.
27. Attend the amazing Festival of Lights in Lyon
Every December, Lyon transforms into an open-air art space during the Festival of Lights. Buildings, squares, and parks are illuminated with creative light installations designed by artists from around the world. You can walk through the city to discover different displays, creating a festive and communal atmosphere.
This event attracts large crowds and is one of the most popular France things to do and winter experiences to have here.
28. Discover the perfume world in Grasse
If you’re a perfume lover, then you should explore the perfume paradise in Grasse. This offers insight into a craft deeply rooted in French tradition. You can learn about perfume creation through museums, historic factories, and workshops. Some experiences allows participants to create their own fragrance, making the visit both educational and interactive.
29. Celebrate Bastille Day with fireworks and local events
On July 14, French people celebrate Bastille Day, and you can experience the national identify firsthand. Multiple events take place during this holiday which often include fireworks, concerts, parades, and public gatherings. While Paris hosts large celebrations, many towns across France organize their own festivities.
30. Admire and learn about prehistoric art at Lascaux IV
Some of the world’s most famous prehistoric art can be discovered at Lascaux IV in a carefully recreated environment. You can participate in a guided tour to learn about techniques, symbolism, and historical context of the artwork. This activity provides a deeper understanding of early human creativity and expression.
31. Explore medieval streets in the city of Carcassonne
Walking through the medieval streets of Carcassonne feels like stepping into a living fortress. The fortified upper town is surrounded by walls and towers that reflect centuries of military history. Inside, narrow streets, small squares and stone buildings create a strong medieval atmosphere.
Exploring this city on foot allows you to appreciate its scale, layout, and preserved architecture at your own pace.
32. Picture a breathtaking view on Dune du Pilat
Climbing Dune du Pilat is a short but rewarding adventure. From the top, you can photograph sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the surrounding pine forest and Arcachon Bay. The light changes throughout the day, making sunrise and sunset especially popular moments for photography. The climb itself is manageable, and stairs are often installed during peak season.
33. See the interesting Machines de l’Île de Nantes
If you want to do a more playful and unusual activity, you can explore Machines de l’Île and see large mechanical creatures in motion. They are all inspired by engineering, art, and imagination. Some machines can be ridden, while others can only be observed during demonstrations. The visit combines creativity with mechanics in a way that appeals to both adults and children.
34. Conquer the waves and surf in Biarritz
Without doubt, surfing in Biarritz is one of the most popular ocean-based activities in France. This town offers beaches suitable for beginners, as well as spots used by more experienced surfers. Plus, surf schools provide lessons and equipment rentals, which makes it easy to try this activity even if it’s your first time.
35. Take in the sight of the Volcanoes of Auvergne
The Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park offers wide landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Walking trails and viewpoints allow people to observe crater shapes, ridges, and open grasslands. Many paths are accessible without technical hiking skills, so this is a good outdoor activity for casual walkers who enjoy nature and open views.
Key aspects to know about this region:
- The region includes around 80 volcanoes grouped within the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The highest peak in the area is Puy de Dôme with an altitude of 1465 meters
- Trails range from short walks of 1-2 hours to longer day hikes, depending on fitness and interest
- Go island-hopping in the Gulf of Morbihan
Another relaxing activity in France is to explore the Gulf of Morbihan by boat. Regular ferries and small passenger boats connect the mainland with multiple islands, making day trips easy and flexible. Most islands are best explored on foot or by bike, with short walking paths, quiet beaches, and small harbors.
37. Sip champagne on Avenue de Champagne in Épernay
You can discover how champagne is produced and aged if you walk along the Avenue de Champagne and join cellar visits. Many champagne houses offer guided tours that explain the fermentation process before ending with tastings. This activity combines light walking, learning, and tasting, and can easily fill half a day without feeling rushed.
38. Experience Alsace as a Christmas wonderland
In winter, towns across Alsace transform with Christmas markets, lights, and seasonal decorations. You can spend time strolling through old-town streets, stopping at wooden stalls selling crafts, pastries, and hot drinks. This experience focuses on enjoying the festive setting rather than following a fixed itinerary.
39. Have a winter getaway at Les Trois Vallées
If you like skiing and snow-based activities, you can enjoy them during a stay in Les Trois Vallées. Ski slopes range from beginner-friendly runs to advanced terrain, making it suitable for all levels. Also, the high altitude of parts of the area helps ensure reliable snow conditions throughout the winter season.
Other useful things to know about this region include:
- Non-skiers can enjoy mountain walks, spa facilities, sledding, and panoramic cable-car rides
- It’s the largest connected ski area in the world, with over 600 km of ski slopes
- The area links several well-known resorts like Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens, and Les Menuires
- Many villages remain lively in winter with restaurants, cafés, and pedestrian areas open throughout the season
40. Discover beautiful lakes and waterfalls in the Jura
Feeling the crisp fresh air and seeing breathtaking scenery is possible if you walk through the Jura Mountains. You can explore forests, lakes, and waterfalls connected by different marked trails. Many walks are short and suitable for half-day outings. So, if you’re feeling for a gentle exploration rather than a challenging hike, this is a strong option for you.
41. Go to Menton’s Lemon Festival and see citrus turned into art
From February up until early March, the Menton Lemon Festival takes place each winter and features large decorative structures made from lemons and oranges. Tourists walk through exhibition areas and watch themed parades. The festival combines local tradition with visual creativity and each year it changes its theme – from mythology to art, from famous movies to popular destinations.
42. Relax on a boat on the beautiful Canal du Midi
Cruising the Canal du Midi is about slowing down and letting the landscape set the pace. Boats travel at very low speed, passing through shaded stretches lined with plane trees and small villages. Most rental boats don’t require a boating license, and basic instructions are given before departure.
Days are structured around short distances, and relaxed evenings moored along the canal. This is a calm and accessible activity even for first-time boaters.
43. Take a road trip to Corsica for beaches and tiny villages
Whether you’re driving your own car or renting one, it could be a great decision to take a road trip across Corsica. Coastal roads lead to calm beaches and rocky coves, while inland routes climb into mountains and pass through small villages. Having a car makes it easier to reach less-developed beaches, hiking points, and inland towns that aren’t connected by public transport.
44. Feel the scale of the Palais des Papes in Avignon
Exploring the Palais des Papes gives a clear sense of the power once held by the medieval papacy. This building is massive and has large stone halls, fortified walls, and open courtyards that reflect its dual role as a residence and a stronghold. You can move through former ceremonial rooms, private chambers and terraces with views over the city.
45. Wander Monet’s gardens and landscapes that inspired impressionism
Nature has significantly influenced impressionist painting, and you can see this by walking though Monet’s Garden. The garden is divided into flowerbeds and the famous water garden, connected by paths and small bridges. The experience changes with the seasons, encouraging travelers to observe details like colors, reflections and plat arrangements.
46. Take a scenic train journey through the French countryside
Train journeys are among the most popular things to do in France, due to the country’s well-developed rail network and frequent connections between cities and regions. Traveling by train allows you to watch the landscape change, from farmland and vineyards to small towns and rivers.
Regional and high-speed trains make it easy to cover long distances without the stress of driving. In the meantime, slower routes offer a more scenic experience.
47. Walk Roman ruins in southern France
Southern France was part of the Roman province of Gallia Narbonensis from the 1st century BC. Walking through the Roman ruins here allows you to explore open-air remains like amphitheaters, aqueducts, and ancient streets. These sites show just how Roman engineering shaped cities and infrastructure.
Key aspects worth mentioning regarding this area:
- Several sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pont du Gard and the Roman monuments of Nîmes
- Cities such as Arles and Orange still use Roman-era layouts that influence modern streets
- Visits can usually be combined with markets, nearby cafés, and city walks as ruins are located close to town centers
48. Shop in a traditional market in Provence
In Provence, you can find multiple markets with stalls that display seasonal fruits, vegetables, cheese, olives, herbs, and regional products. Markets usually take place in the morning and encourage tasting and conversation with vendors and locals. The most popular one is Aix-en-Provence market, but you can also visit Lourmarin and Saint-Rémy.
49. Enjoy wine-tasting along Burgundy’s Route des Grands Crus
Following the Route des Grands Crus allows you to move between vineyard villages and wineries over a relatively short distance. Many tastings are offered by appointment or during opening hours. Here, you can learn about grape varieties, terroir and winemaking traditions. If you like this type of activity, you can easily put it on your bucket list with things to do in France.
50. Step into the hilltop villages of Provence
Walking through Provence, you’ll discover many villages that are built on top of hills like Gordes, Roussillon, or Ménerbes. Narrow streets wind between stone houses, often leading to small squares, fountains, or viewpoints overlooking vineyards and valleys. Cars are usually left outside the village, which encourages visitors to explore on foot.
You don’t need a plan; you can sit at a cozy café, wander into small shops, or simply follow a quiet street. Just focus on rhythm and atmosphere.
51. Spend a night in a classic château hotel
Many noble estates across France have been converted into small hotels, keeping original features like stone staircases, large windows, and landscaped grounds. Staying overnight in a château hotel is a great way to admire historic architecture. Evenings are usually quiet, with dinner on site or nearby, and mornings often begin with views over gardens or countryside.
52. Hike through lavender landscapes during bloom season
Provence is super popular for lavender-growing areas. During bloom season, you can hike through these landscapes and see beautiful colors and inhale the particular scent of lavender. Paths often run alongside fields or between small roads, making walks very accessible even for casual hikers.
It’s best to come here in summer, because lavender typically blooms between late June and July, with some higher-altitude areas flowering slightly after.
53. Join a French cooking class and prepare regional dishes
For food lovers, joining a French cooking class offers hands-on insight into local cuisine and it’s probably a go-to activity to do. Classes usually start with an introduction to ingredients and basic techniques before moving into the actual preparation. Recipes often reflect regional traditions, and the class typically ends with a shared meal.
54. Admire the Gothic stained glass of Amiens or Reims
You can discover how light was used as a key architectural element in the Middle Ages by admiring these beautiful cathedrals. They were designed with tall walls and large window openings to let light pass through colored glass and illuminate the interior. You can walk quietly through the nave and side aisles, pausing to look up at windows and structural details.
Everything highlights medieval craftsmanship, engineering skill, and the symbolic importance of light in Gothic architecture.
56. Learn how the traditional French cheese is made
Visiting a cheese dairy is another great option for those asking what to do in France. This introduces tourists to the processes behind one of the most important food traditions in this country. Producers often explain how milk type, aging time, and regional conditions influence flavor and texture.
This activity is both educational and sensory, making it easy to enjoy without prior knowledge.
57. Enjoy an apéritif like a local
The everyday French life isn’t super energetic. It mainly focuses on simplicity, wellbeing, and having a good time with friends and family. Therefore, you can take part in an apéritif which is usually held before dinner and involves meeting friends or family for a drink or small snacks.
There’s no schedule or formality. The focus is on conversation, slowing down, and making the transition from day to evening.
58. Explore coastal ports and villages in Brittany
Exploring coastal ports and villages in Brittany offers insight into a maritime culture that still shapes daily life. Small fishing harbors, tidal docks and stone quays are common features, with boats coming and going depending on the tides. You can observe working harbors alongside leisure sailing by walking in ports like Saint-Goustan or Concarneau.
Many coastal paths connect villages, so you can have short walks with stops for seafood or a coffee while overlooking the water.
59. Run the Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc
The Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc is held annually in September near Bordeaux and is among the most famous French attractions for tourists and locals. You can either take part in the event or just watch the runners. The marathon passes through vineyards, small villages and wine estates and spectators can enjoy music, local food and wine tastings.
Interesting facts about this event:
- It follows a standard marathon distance of 42.195 km at a relaxed and festive pace
- The route passes through more than 20 wine estates
- Around 8000 runners participate each year with strong international representation
- Discover modern architecture by Le Corbusier
Exploring buildings designed by Le Corbusier allows travelers to understand how modern architecture developed in the 20th century. His work in France includes residential buildings, religious architecture, and experimental urban designs. Examples such as the chapel at Ronchamp or the Unité d’Habitation in Marseille show how he used light, raw materials, and open space in new ways.
Visits are usually self-guided, encouraging people to observe proportions, structure and the relationship between buildings and their surroundings.
60. Enjoy nature and wildlife at the Bay of Somme
The Bay of Somme offers a quiet, nature-based experience shaped by tides and seasons. Its wide estuary includes mudflats, salt marshes, dunes, and grasslands that change appearance throughout the day. You can walk or cycle along the marked paths to observe birdlife particularly during migration periods or seal colonies that rest on sandbanks.
The calm atmosphere and open space make this activity a reflective and gentle way to conclude a journey through France.
Choose your favorite things to do in France and shape your own adventure
Whether you’re drawn to famous landmarks, quiet villages, outdoor escapes, or everyday rituals, the activities you choose will shape how you’ll remember your trip. Use this list as inspiration, mix well-known highlights with slower moments, and leave room for discovery. France often leaves the strongest impression in how it makes you feel after the trip ends.
