17 Best Things to do in France

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Trying to plan the ultimate France trip? We’ve rounded up the highlights.

From Paris icons like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to storybook villages, coastal gems, and lavender-filled countryside, France truly has it all. But with so many amazing options, planning the perfect trip can feel a little overwhelming.

That’s where we come in. We’ve explored this incredible country from top to bottom and packed all our favorite experiences into one epic list. Whether you’re new to France or know it like a local, these are the can’t-miss tours, sights, and day trips that showcase the very best of the country, each one personally chosen based on our own experiences. Let’s jump into the best of this timeless destination!

Things to do in France

1. Visit the Louvre

The Louvre isn’t just a museum—it’s a journey through centuries of human creativity. But without a guide, it’s easy to miss something incredible. That’s why this small group tour was the perfect way to explore. Plus, with reserved entry, we skipped the long lines and stepped straight into the art and history.

We moved effortlessly through the grand hallways and galleries, pausing at the Venus de Milo to hear how this ancient statue became a symbol of classical beauty. Our guide, Julian, made the art feel alive, weaving in stories that connected each piece to its historical context. 

At the Mona Lisa, he made sure we had the best view while pointing out details most visitors miss. Beyond the iconic works, Julian led us to The Wedding at Cana, an enormous painting that often goes unnoticed despite being displayed directly across from the Mona Lisa.

What’s great is that this tour is designed to fit any style. Go small-group or private for a more personal experience, or opt for the family-friendly version. And the best part? Your ticket lets you stick around after the tour.

If you want to enjoy the Louvre Museum without the hassle, this is the way to do it. But don’t just take our word for it—read the 5-star reviews here and see why travelers love this tour!

Check out the 5-star reviews and book this top-rated tour here!

Related Read: For more awesome ways to visit the Louvre, check out our 5 favorite Louvre tours here!

2. Go up the Eiffel Tower

Now, let’s be honest: no trip to Paris would be complete without going to the top of the Eiffel Tower! And if you want the full experience, we highly recommend this guided tour.

We booked this tour because it not only included entry to the Eiffel Tower, but we also had a guide who took us to all of the different levels and taught us about the history of this iconic landmark. After all, it’s one of the most famous buildings in the entire world, so we thought we might as well go for an in-depth experience! 

Our guide, Ruth, was fantastic. She knew so much of the Eiffel Tower’s history, which turned out to be super interesting! She also ensured that we had plenty of time at each level to snap beautiful photos of Paris and just enjoy the spectacular views. 

There are a few options available for this tour: you can go to the second level of the tower or include a visit to the summit for the best views possible!

Of course, we just had to go all the way to the top, and it was definitely worth it. The top floor is over 161 meters (528 ft) higher than the second floor, so the views are just incredible. Don’t get me wrong, the second floor is still pretty amazing, but I highly recommend choosing the summit access option to get the full Eiffel Tower experience!

The exact price varies by day, so be sure to book your spot early to ensure the best price possible!

Check out the 1,700+ glowing reviews and book this iconic Paris experience here.

Related Read: This tour is popular and tends to sell out fast – but don’t worry, you can always book one of our other favorite Eiffel Tower tours!

3. Enjoy a romantic Paris River Cruise

Lunch Cruise

This gourmet lunch cruise on the Seine was such a special experience. I mean, what could be better than a gourmet lunch, wine, and amazing views of Paris’ most iconic landmarks? Short answer: nothing! 

We decided to go all out and opted for the Premier Service, which proved to be an excellent decision! We were greeted with a chilled glass of champagne and then were seated right at the front of the boat in the VIP area. 

As the boat glided along the Seine, the city unfolded before us. We saw Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower from the water, while the live music on board created the perfect ambiance. And the food only made things better – I’m talking about marinated prawns, salmon steak, and an amazing blackberry chocolate for dessert. We really couldn’t have asked for more!

I’m not kidding when I say that this cruise is an enchanting experience that will have you falling head over heels in love with the city of Paris, and the thousands of 5-star reviews definitely seem to agree with us!

Check out the different packages and book your gourmet lunch cruise here!

Dinner Cruise

Paris is the city of love, and what better way to spend an evening in the world’s most romantic city than on a luxurious dinner cruise along the Seine? We had an incredible evening taking in the sights of Paris lit up at night. 

The views were beautiful, the food was delicious, and the service was 5-star. We saw so much as we enjoyed our meal, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Grand Palais, the Louvre, and more! 

There was also a photographer on board snapping photos, and a very talented local singer performed after dinner, which was a nice surprise. All in all, it was a super romantic experience, so it’s a must for couples, but it’s ideal for anyone who wants the VIP experience. It definitely injected a lot of glamor into our trip to Paris.

Plus, with over 4,500 5-star reviews, we aren’t the only ones who loved this experience! See all the positive things people are saying about the cruise here.

Secure your spot on this popular dinner cruise here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go.

4. See the historic Mont Saint Michel

Let’s be real—if you’re in Paris and have a day to spare, visiting the island abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is absolutely worth it. And this full-day guided tour makes it easier than ever to explore one of France’s most iconic and magical landmarks.

This 14-hour adventure covered everything: round-trip transport by private coach, an expert guide from Paris (shoutout to Lawrence, who was phenomenal!), and plenty of time to explore Mont Saint-Michel at our own pace. 

The day kicked off bright and early at 7 am, and after a comfortable drive through the scenic Normandy countryside, we arrived at the island just before lunchtime. Lawrence gave us a fantastic orientation with fascinating medieval stories that really brought the site’s history to life. 

After that, we had nearly four hours to explore independently. We used the included ticket and audio guide to tour the abbey, wander the winding stone streets, and grab lunch at one of the local spots. Whether you’re after a seafood feast or a simple crêpe and cider, there are plenty of options, and you can’t go wrong if you go for one of Lawrence’s recommendations.

By the time we returned to Paris, we were happily exhausted, but buzzing from such a memorable experience. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime day trip. And clearly we aren’t the only ones who loved it—check out over 1,000 five-star reviews here and see for yourself why this tour should be at the top of your France bucket list!

Book your spot here to see why Mont Saint-Michel is a must!

Related Read: If you need some help planning your time in Paris, have a look at our expert 3-day itinerary that goes over all the must-see spots, best restaurants, and has tons of insider tips!

5. See the historic sights in Normandy

If you’re interested in WWII history, then taking a day trip to Normandy is a must. The beaches where the D-Day landings happened are around 3.5 hours from Paris, so it’s too far to drive yourself, but we booked this tour and it made the entire day a breeze! 

Around 160,000 Allied troops landed on the beaches in June 1944, in what was one of the biggest invasions in military history. We visited Omaha Beach, which had the highest number of casualties. Our guide told us that Omaha was actually a military code name, but it has stuck around ever since! 

About half of the troops that fought on D-Day were American, so the tour also took us to the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, and we also visited the Utah Beach Museum, which was super interesting. Our guides, Eric and Sam, were super knowledgeable and taught us a lot about American involvement in WWII and the impact that D-Day had. 

Although somber at times, the tour was super interesting, and I would say it’s a must for history buffs. We also really enjoyed the included lunch, which was at a lovely waterfront restaurant and included tastings of both cider and calvados, a local apple brandy. This stuff is usually pretty expensive, so take advantage!

The tour was super well-organized, the coach was very comfortable, and we got to see a lot without feeling rushed, so we’re really glad that we booked this tour rather than going through the hassle of planning a day trip ourselves.

Book this tour with THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews here!

6. Go on a food tour

France’s culinary scene is arguably the best in the world (at least that’s what the locals tell me). So, to truly experience it in all of its glory, we knew a food tour was in order. We love food tours and think that each city offers something different, so take multiple if you can! Here are the top three food tours in France in the three most popular food cities – don’t miss this activity!

Lyon

France is known for its world-class food, and Lyon is its culinary capital, so taking this secret food tour is a must! We had the best time eating the city’s top treats, and we’re clearly not the only ones who loved it – check out hundreds of 5-star reviews here!

We started out at a beloved local restaurant, where we sampled a delicious selection of local charcuterie and cheeses. Best of all, it was paired with wine from a traditional “Pot Lyonnais”.

We also got to try amazing pink praline brioches and specialty treats at a local chocolatier before heading to an authentic bouchon for a hearty meal. The food was rich and flavorful and perfectly paired with a glass of wine. Finally, we wrapped up the tour with an espresso at a gorgeous local cafe, which was the perfect way to end the experience.

This tour was hands down the best thing that we did in Lyon, and we can’t recommend it enough. If you only do one food tour in France, make it one!

Book this tour here with FREE cancellation!

Related Read: If you’re spending some time in Lyon, make sure you check out this list of our 7 favorite things to do!

Paris

Paris is known for its fine food, so what could be better than stuffing yourself full of gourmet French goodies on this food tour? We had the best time eating cheese, pastries, oysters, and more! 

What we love about this tour is that it gives you two options, so you can choose the menu you’re most interested in. You can choose to explore the Montmartre or Notre Dame area. If you choose the former, the tour includes macarons, cured meats, freshly made crêpes, and amazing cheese. However, we went for the Notre Dame tour, so we got pastries, tarts, pâté, and wine! 

We loved the Notre Dame tour because the cathedral is super central, and it was so much fun discovering hidden foodie hotspots and specialty shops in one of the most famous areas of Paris. Our guide, Louie, taught us so much about Parisian food, the cooking techniques used, and why French cuisine is so prestigious! 

Book this food tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go.

Marseille

We had so much fun exploring Marseille’s diverse culinary scene on this food tour! Our friendly guide, Yasmine, took us off the tourist track to visit local hotspots, where we feasted on French and Mediterranean delights.

Our first dish of the day was roasted Camembert, which was melted to perfection and paired with fresh bread. Then, we had a selection of Marseille’s famous tapas at a cozy bar, from charcuterie to Provençal-style seafood. It was so yummy!

Next up, we headed to the Old Port, where we tried panisse (crispy chickpea fries) and sardines. I don’t know about you, but I always find that seafood tastes better right by the water! Then, for dessert, we went to an artisan confectionery store to indulge in nougat and almond sweets.

Many of the dishes on the tour weren’t ones that we would have thought to try on our own, and that’s precisely what made it so special.

Book our favorite Marseille tour here, before it sells out!

7. Discover the Cathédrale Notre-Dame’s history

It’s easy to walk right past Notre Dame and miss the rich stories, symbols, and secrets that make this cathedral and its surroundings so fascinating. That’s exactly why we booked this outdoor walking tour, and it turned out to be the perfect way to uncover its history hiding in plain sight.

This 90-minute guided experience dives deep into the heart of Île de la Cité, with stops at Notre Dame’s striking façade, the Seine-side Square du Vert-Galant, Place Dauphine, the Palace of Justice, and more. Along the way, our guide, Sylvia, brought centuries of Parisian history to life. Her knowledge of French architecture and royal intrigue was incredible, and she was so easy to follow.

We especially loved the finale: entrance to the Archaeological Crypt under Notre Dame, where you can explore the ancient foundations of Paris at your own pace. You can also book the combo tour to add post-tour entry to Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie, two jaw-dropping monuments just steps away.

For any history lover, architecture enthusiast, or first-time visitor, this is a must-do experience that belongs on every France itinerary. It’s one of the most unique ways to see Paris—not just admiring Notre Dame from the outside, but truly understanding the layers of history that surround it.

Secure your spot today and walk through the true heart of Paris!

8. Visit the castles in the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is yet another stunning region within easy reach of Paris. And given its lush landscape and picturesque castles, who wouldn’t want to visit?

We really wanted to see the castles, but we didn’t have a ton of time left, so we booked this day trip from Paris. Our admission tickets, bookings, and transportation were all taken care of, so we didn’t have to worry about a thing! 

First, we headed to Château de Chambord. Disney fans take note: this was the inspiration for the castle in Beauty and the Beast! Our guide, James, gave us an introduction to the castle, and then we also had some time to explore by ourselves, which was so much fun. We even spotted some deer running around the grounds!

Next, we headed for the quaint town of Blois, which sits right on the Loire River. We had free time here, so we grabbed lunch at a local restaurant. We had to pay for this on the day, but we were happy with that as it meant that we could wander around, choose a restaurant we liked the look of, and enjoy a meal just the two of us. 

Then, the day really ended on a high note as we visited Château de Chenonceau, an extravagant white castle. We loved hearing about its unusual history, but what was even better was getting to do a wine tasting here! If you ask me, life doesn’t get much better than wine-tasting in a castle. 

So if you want to step out of the city and into a fairytale, I cannot recommend this tour enough. It would be an ideal thing to do on a honeymoon or romantic trip to Paris, but honestly, I think it would be very hard for anyone not to enjoy it! 

Check out the 2,500+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

9. Go wine tasting in Bordeaux

When in Bordeaux, you have to explore and go wine tasting! Our favorite way of doing that is visiting the Saint Emilion and Pomerol wine regions on this top-rated tour.

It’s a truly dreamy experience. After all, who doesn’t want to spend a day sipping wine in gorgeous French chateaus? 

Speaking of which, the first wine estate of the day was absolutely perfect. We learned so much about the art of winemaking and how the region’s unique soil and climate create world-class wines. We also got to walk through the vineyards and enjoy a guided tasting of some of the estate’s top reds. 

Next up, we headed to the charming, UNESCO-listed town of Saint Emilion, where we were introduced to the town’s rich history via a walking tour. Then, we had free time to wander the cobblestone streets and savor a yummy local lunch at a café that our guide, Carol, recommended. 

The third and final stop of the day was another chateau in Pomerol, where we got to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the wine cellar and vat house. We gained an even deeper appreciation for the winemaking process and got to do another wine tasting.

We can’t say enough good things about this tour, and we aren’t alone, just check out all the 5-star reviews! It was perfectly paced, educational, and a total blast from start to finish.

Don’t miss this tour while you’re in Bordeaux, reserve it here!

10. Tour the Palace of Versailles

Versailles is one of the most visited sites in France—and for good reason. But here’s what most visitors don’t realize: without timed entry and a guide, you could spend more time waiting in line than actually seeing the palace. That’s exactly why we booked this guided tour, and it made all the difference.

Our 90-minute tour through the Palace of Versailles was led by our incredible guide, Mauro, who felt more like a French history professor than a typical guide. He had a captivating way of telling stories about Louis XIV, Marie Antoinette, and the palace’s political intrigue that made the ornate rooms feel alive. He also navigated the crowds with ease, ensuring we didn’t miss a single detail of the dazzling Hall of Mirrors or the opulent State Apartments.

After the palace tour, we were free to wander the gardens at our own pace. On days when the musical or fountain shows are running (usually spring through early fall), there’s an additional garden fee, but the atmosphere is well worth it.

From seamless entry to expert storytelling, this tour is hands-down the best way to experience Versailles. It’s an absolute must for history lovers and anyone who wants to walk in the footsteps of royalty without the stress. There’s no better way to soak in the grandeur, drama, and beauty of one of France’s most legendary landmarks.

Book your spot early here—Versailles fills up fast, and this tour is a game changer!

11. Take a cooking class

One of our favorite ways to connect with French culture is through its food, and not just by eating it. There’s something truly special about learning to cook classic dishes where they were born, from the buttery folds of a fresh croissant to the glossy shells of perfectly piped macarons. Cooking classes in France aren’t just about recipes – they’re about slowing down, rolling up your sleeves, and experiencing the country one delicious bite at a time.

Whether you’re a confident home cook or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon in Paris, these small-group classes were some of our most memorable moments in France. They’re hands-on, intimate, and packed with expert guidance, local flavor, and plenty of laughs. 

Croissants

Eating your way through Paris is easy—figuring out how those perfect croissants are actually made? That’s another story. So instead of just admiring them behind a glass case, we signed up for this hands-on pastry workshop, and it gave us a whole new appreciation for French baking.

Held in a professional kitchen near Place des Vosges, this small-group lesson walks you through every step of making the real deal: flaky croissants, rich pain au chocolat, and sweet pain aux raisins. Our chef, Mateo, was fantastic—he made everything feel approachable, explained techniques clearly, and kept the mood light and fun throughout.

We sipped coffee while folding buttery dough, learned the art of lamination, and then pulled golden pastries out of the oven and devoured them warm. Plus, anything we didn’t finish, we boxed up to go. You even get a recipe booklet to recreate the magic at home.

If you love croissants, this class is an absolute must!

Book your spot here and learn to bake Paris’ most iconic pastries!

Macrons

Macarons may be beautiful, bite-sized works of art, but behind those glossy shells and pastel colors lies a notoriously fussy recipe. Instead of trying (and failing) to master them at home, we joined this small-group baking class in Paris to learn the real technique from a pro.

Our instructor, Florence, was an absolute joy! Kind, funny, and incredibly talented, she walked us through the entire process, from whipping the meringue to piping the buttercream and assembling each cookie with care. We even got to pick our own colors and flavor combinations—think raspberry, pistachio, chocolate, lemon, and more.

After baking, we sipped coffee and tasted our creations while Florence shared the cultural significance of macarons in France. And the best part? We left with a box of about two dozen picture-perfect cookies to take home (or, let’s be honest, snack on immediately).

This class is perfect for anyone who loves sweets and wants to bring home more than souvenirs!

Treat yourself to a hands-on pastry experience—book your macaron class here!

Lunch and market visit

Dining out in Paris is unforgettable, but learning to cook a classic French meal yourself? That’s a whole different kind of magic. Still, mastering a full three-course menu at home can feel intimidating. That’s why we booked this small-group cooking class, and it was easily one of our most memorable experiences in Paris.

We chose the full 6-hour version, which started with a trip to a local market near the Latin Quarter. Our chef (who was absolutely hilarious) helped us pick out ingredients and even treated us to cheese samples before we headed back to the kitchen.

With just a handful of others in the group, it felt more like cooking with friends than taking a formal class. We made dishes like coq au vin, salmon tartare, and poached peaches—with drink pairings, of course. It was just the right amount of challenge, with lots of laughs and plenty of hands-on time.

Come hungry and ready to learn—this class is the real deal!

For one of Paris’s top foodie experiences, reserve this cooking class here!

12. Explore the French Riviera

If glitz, glamour, and jaw-dropping Mediterranean views are on your bucket list, this small-group day tour of the French Riviera is a must! Departing from Nice and visiting six different towns in just one day, it’s the perfect way to make the most of your time while soaking in the highlights.

The itinerary is jam-packed, but a few moments really stood out to me. First up was Eze, a picture-perfect medieval village perched high above the sea. Wandering its cobblestone streets and taking in the sweeping views was incredible. We also stopped at the Fragonard Perfume Factory, where I snagged a one-of-a-kind souvenir to bring home!

Next was Monaco, where we explored the Monte Carlo Casino area and drove parts of the iconic Grand Prix circuit. It was such a cool moment to see the streets that host the famous race!

Another highlight was strolling Cannes’ Croisette Boulevard, the glitzy promenade where celebs flock during the annual film festival. The day wrapped up in St-Paul-de-Vence, a charming village known for its art galleries and stunning views.

With a maximum of eight people, this tour felt personal and relaxed, and our guide Stephane made it even better with his humor and insights. With hotel pickup, comfy transport, and hundreds of 5-star reviews, I think this tour is 100% worth it! 

Read the full tour itinerary and secure your spot here!

Related Read: To make the most of your time in Nice, have a look at our 3-day itinerary that covers everything you need to know from the best things to do to places to eat!

13. Drink champagne in Champagne

From Paris

I’m sure you’ve heard many people say that sparkling wine can only be called champagne if it comes from the Champagne region of France. So while you’re in Paris, why not go and try the real thing?

We were super excited when we came across this full-day tour and just had to book it! Not only was it easier than trying to plan everything ourselves, but we also both wanted to drink champagne, of course, so there was really no point in renting a car. Champagne tasting is no fun when you’re the designated driver! 

The views as we drove through the rolling hills of Champagne were just beautiful, and we loved exploring the Nicolas Feuillatte wine estate. It was gorgeous, and we got to try 3 of their champagne varieties, so we were very happy. 

After that, we visited Hautvillers Abbey to see the final resting place of Dom Perignon. Yes, THE Dom Perignon, the founding father of champagne! We also got a guided tour of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, which is a stunning Gothic cathedral that’s over 800 years old. 

After that, we visited a family-run champagne farm for another tasting. Nicolas Feuillatte is super well-known, so it was really fun to visit a smaller estate and see the difference! Then, we had some free time in Epernay, the capital of the Champagne region, where we went and bought lunch on our own account. We may or may not have had some more champagne here, too! 

Check availability and book this tour in advance here.

From Reims

Reims is the heart of the Champagne region, making it the perfect base for exploring France’s most iconic sparkling wine country. It all sounds dreamy, until you realize how tricky it can be to plan tastings, arrange transport, and choose between big-name houses and hidden gems. Thankfully, this small-group day tour from Reims took all the stress out of it and replaced it with a day full of Champagne, charm, and unforgettable vineyard views.

The experience began with a scenic drive down Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, followed by a walk through the storybook village of Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon is buried. We had time to admire the views and snap photos before heading to a local estate for lunch.

Later, we stopped at a family-run winery, where our guide, Anna, walked us through the Champagne-making process and poured tastings straight from the source. She was informative, engaging, and clearly passionate about supporting small, independent producers.

Well-paced, relaxed, and full of charm, this is the best champagne tour from Reims and an absolute must for wine lovers! You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the region, and maybe even a few new favorites, too.

Book your spot here and sip your way through Champagne like a local!

14. Wander through Monet’s gardens

Visiting Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny is a dream for many travelers, but getting there on your own can be time-consuming and confusing, especially without a car. That’s why we chose this small-group guided tour from Paris, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful and inspiring highlights of our entire France trip.

With just eight people in our group, the experience felt personal from start to finish. Our guide, Matthew, was incredible—his passion for art and music made the drive fly by, and his stories about Monet’s life brought the entire visit to life.

We began in Clos Normand, the artist’s flower garden, bursting with blooms in every color imaginable. Then we crossed into the Japanese garden, where the green bridge and lily-covered pond looked exactly like the paintings. Matthew pointed out the exact spots Monet used as his vantage points—it was surreal.

After a self-guided walk through Monet’s colorfully preserved home, we ended with a quiet visit to his grave in a nearby village churchyard. It was a peaceful and thoughtful close to a day that truly felt like stepping into one of his paintings.

This tour books up fast for good reason! Read hundreds of glowing five-star reviews here explaining why it’s the easiest and most enriching way to explore the world of France’s most beloved Impressionist. 

See the views that inspired Monet’s masterpieces—book this tour early here!

15. Explore the medieval towns of the Alsace Region

We couldn’t pass up the chance to explore Alsace’s medieval villages and castles while we were in Strasbourg, and this walking tour was the perfect way to do it!

We began by driving through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Alsace wine route while our guide, Amanda, shared fascinating stories about the area’s history, culture, and traditions.

Our first stop was Colmar, a fairytale-like town with colorful houses, charming canals, and cobblestone streets. We could definitely see why it’s known as “Little Venice”! After a guided tour of Colmar, we went to Eguisheim, a small village that was bursting with character and cute, flower-adorned buildings. 

For us, the highlight of the day was exploring Riquewihr, a beautiful commune that’s surrounded by fortified walls. We loved having free time to explore here and even found a cute local café where we treated ourselves to some traditional tarte flambée. It was crispy, creamy, and packed with smoky flavor!

Our final stop of the day was Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, which was nothing short of breathtaking. The castle is perched high above a valley, so the views are absolutely incredible, and exploring its grand halls and defensive towers was even more interesting. 

What we liked most was that this tour delivered a seamless experience that required no pre-planning or navigation on our part. If you envision your trip to France as a dreamy vacation filled with storybook-like scenes and amazing photo opportunities, this tour is a must!

Check availability and secure your spot on this tour here!

16. Spend a day in Calanques National Park

If you’re in Marseille, exploring Calanques National Park is a must. We couldn’t wait to see this stunning area for ourselves, so we booked this e-bike tour to cover as much ground as possible.

And of course, we were swayed by all of the 5-star reviews, which you can read here!

From the moment we set off from Pointe Rouge Beach, we knew we were in for an adventure. Our guide, Vincent, was fantastic and knew so much about the Calanques! The first stop was Calanque de Sormiou, where we paused for stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean waters. Then, we descended into a peaceful cove with a sandy beach where we stopped for a refreshing swim.

Next, we rode to Calanque de Morgiou, which hides a tiny fishing village between dramatic limestone cliffs. Vincent taught us that this is one of the only inhabited Calanques, and we took a break here to soak in the beauty of it all. Our final stop was Calanque de Callelongue, where the road wound along the rugged coastline. This area had an almost otherworldly feel!

The electric bikes made the journey smooth, especially on the steeper inclines leading into the park. They also made it possible to cover a lot of ground without too much effort. If you’re looking for an adventurous yet accessible way to see the beauty of the Calanques, don’t hesitate to book this tour!

Check availability and book this tour here, with FREE cancellation!

17. Explore the South of France and see the famous lavender fields of Provence

Between driving unfamiliar roads, coordinating town stops, and figuring out which markets and sights are worth your time, planning to explore Provence on your own can feel overwhelming. Instead of trying to piece it all together ourselves, we joined this small-group tour from Avignon, and it turned out to be the perfect, no-stress way to experience the highlights of southern France in just one unforgettable day.

Our guide, Julien, was outstanding. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and full of great local stories. And with only eight people in the group, it felt relaxed and personal the entire day.

We wandered the sun-drenched streets of Gordes and Roussillon, admired the sweeping views over the Luberon Valley, and stopped at Sénanque Abbey during lavender season (mid-June through August) for postcard-worthy photos. In Saint-Rémy, we strolled the same streets Van Gogh once did, and in Les Baux, we explored a medieval fortress perched above the countryside. We even stood in awe at the towering Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that still defies belief.

This tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want a rich taste of Provençal beauty, history, and charm. You’ll cover a lot, but it never feels rushed, and with someone else handling all the details, you can just soak in the magic.

Provence should be on every France itinerary, and this tour is the perfect way to experience it!

Provence is calling—grab your spot on this unforgettable lavender tour here!

Where to Stay in France

As you plan your travels through France, it’s important to find the right place to stay. Whether you’re looking for a luxury getaway or are traveling on a shoestring budget, each city has different areas and offerings for travelers.

We have full guides on where to stay in Paris and the best areas and hotels in Nice to help you find the perfect place to rest! But, for a quick glance, here is our top hotel recommendation for the major cities in France:

• Paris – We loved  Hôtel Duo in Le Marais (3rd & 4th districts)
• Nice – Check out the Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice in Jean-Médecin
• Lyon – Hotel de Verdun 1882 in the Perrache district is a fantastic option
• Marseille – Check out the New Hotel Le Quai Vieux Port in the Old Port
• Bordeaux – Have a comfortable stay at The Pullman Bordeaux Lac
• Strasbourg – HANNONG Hotel & Wine Bar is a charming hotel in the heart of the city

Renting a Car in France

France is a dream to explore by car—think lavender fields in Provence, medieval villages in the Dordogne, and coastal drives along the Côte d’Azur. While the train network is excellent, having your own wheels lets you uncover those hidden gems at your own pace. Plus, French drivers are generally courteous, making road tripping here a breeze!

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in France

• Know the local rules: In France, they drive on the right-hand side, and some intersections follow priorité à droite—meaning cars from the right have the right of way, even if you’re on the main road. It’s also mandatory to carry a reflective vest and warning triangle in your car.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in France are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. We love how easy it is to filter for exactly what you need on Discover Cars.
• Watch for restricted zones (LEZs): Many major French cities (like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille) have low-emission or restricted driving zones. These areas often require special permits or advance registration, and driving into them without authorization can lead to fines. Always check ahead if you’re planning to drive into a city center.
• Be prepared for toll roads: France has an extensive network of toll roads (autoroutes). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with a toll transponder for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in France

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Some rental companies may require one.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring France on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We hope this guide is helpful as you plan your ultimate France getaway! If you have the opportunity to travel all over the country, checking off these bucket list items, you’re in for a real treat. We tried out all of these activities and know you’ll see the best of this iconic country if you stick to our recommendations.

Before you go, check out our other France blogs! Whether you’re in the big city of Paris or exploring more of the countryside, we have more blogs to help you plan your trip. Here are a few related reads that you might like – cheers!

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Nice, France: 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend TWO DAYS in Lyon, France – The Best 2-Day Itinerary

5 Best Things to do in Marseille, France