Things to Do in France

France: The Most Visited European Country!

As per the World Tourism Organisation, France was visited by more than 90 million tourists in 2019 before a pandemic forced the world into a shutdown. However, with things improving, the country is once again ready to welcome visitors.

Dramatic mountains, heritage wineries, abundant coastlines and a number of famous historical sites offer every tourist something to do in France.

These unique encounters and short adventures go beyond simply seeing a monument or museum; they capture the location's soul. Let’s quickly move on to some facts about France!

France Travel Facts

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Most Popular Things to Do in France

From heading straight to the Eiffel or visiting the perfect vineyard, here are some of the best things to do in France:

1. Visit Eiffel Tower for Sunset

   Though cliché, this is the most popular thing to do in France. The iconic Eiffel Tower is simply serene during sunset and is among the best things to do in France for backpackers, couples and anyone who wants a view they don’t want to forget!

2. Go on a Seine River Cruise to See Paris

   Cruising through the Seine River is a lovely way to explore all of Paris' must-see attractions while relaxing. Scenic boat tours by the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Musée D'Orsay, and other significant structures.

3. Explore Bordeaux on Bicycle!

   Bordeaux has some of France's most beautiful scenery, with vine-covered rolling hills and towering castles. Cyclists can plan their route or hire a tour operator to do it for them.

4. Walk Around Paris!

   Budget travellers, this one is one of the best things to do in France without compromising your experience! The idea of a leisurely, aimless stroll solely to soak up the scenery seems utterly French, and what better place than Paris? Take a picnic in Luxembourg Gardens with cheese and champagne, and enjoy the sunset behind the Eiffel Tower after the day.

5. Surf or Relax at Normandy's Étretat Cliffs

   This pebble beach along the Alabaster Coast is popular among surfers. The spectacular chalk cliffs and rock formations draw a lot of visitors here. Natural sculptures are found in this 80-mile stretch, which has inspired many tourists and painters (most notable Monet) for centuries.

6. Soak in the Grandeur of the Palace of Versailles

   Louis XIV's 18th-century residency is one of the most stunning combined exhibitions of art, architecture, interior design, and landscaping in the world. If you love architecture and splendour, visit its lavishly decorated chapel as well as a full-fledged opera theatre.

   Don't miss the queen's bed chambers, a work of art in excess, and the famed Hall of Mirrors, which is still in use today!

7. Get in Touch with Nature in Giverny

   Giverny is a small village near Normandy best known for being the home and garden of Claude Monet, both of which are popular among the public today. With spring green shutters and ivy climbing on every surface, the pastel pink house is picture-perfect.

8. Attend the Carcassonne Summer Festival

   Every year in July, the Festival de Carcassonne brings the fairy-tale mediaeval city of Carcassonne into the modern world. Classical music, opera, jazz, rock, folk music, and dance and theatre are all featured in this esteemed festival, which features a broad program of performances by renowned French and international performers.

9. Visit the French Alps

   With fluffy snow on bright sunny days, the French Alps are one of the most beautiful Alpine landscapes in the world. They’re also excellent for skiing and are regarded among the top skiing locations in the world.

   This beautiful region of France is known for its charming mountain villages, rustic Alpine charm, and excellent views. The resort of Morzine has a variety of cosy tiny chalets and beautiful lodges that are ideal for a ski vacation.

10. Fly in the World's Largest Hot-air Balloon

    This is one of the best things to do in France for couples and solo travellers! On the Ballon de Paris, one will soar 150 metres above one of the world's most magnificent cities, Parc Andre Citroen. Don't forget to bring (and hold close to) the camera!

Things to Do in France for Foodies

French coffee, cafes and pubs are a rage across the world and for good reason! France offers some of the best and most unique foods that you simply can’t resist!

Croissants and Croque Monsieurs are as iconic as the Eiffel Tower and the Sacre-Coeur. A trip to France is not complete without sampling its cuisine. Here are some of the things to do in France for foodies.

• Wine Tasting Class or a Dinner at Chateau: The O Chateau wine bar between the 1st and 2nd arrondissements provides wine tasting seminars, a wine and cheese lunch, and more. It even offers a multi-course wine sampling evening.
• Dinner and a Show at Moulin Rouge: The Moulin Rouge may be a little touristy but you can enjoy a complete French gourmet 3-course dinner (from three different menus), followed by some Champagne while being charmed by their shows
• Picnic at the Eiffel Tower + Market on Rue Cler: One of Paris' most famous market streets, Rue Cler is a street lined with market booths, cheese shops, butchers, fishmongers, and chocolate shops. Make a point of stopping here before heading to the Eiffel Towers to gather supplies for an Eiffel Tower picnic.
• Enjoy a Gourmet Meal on a Double-Decker: This is the best way to combine two wonderful Paris experiences into one thanks to Bustronome Paris restaurant-bus. On Sundays, tourists can join for a 4-course lunch, 6-course dinner, or brunch. While dining on board, the bus will travel by all of Paris' most famous attractions.

Planning your France Itinerary

France has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations globally, and for a good reason. It has something to offer every traveller, whether it is value art and architecture, fine dining, or outdoor excursions. However, before you do any of these things, you should plan a perfect itinerary so that your trip goes smoothly:

Step 1: Plan Your France Journey: How to Reach France?

• Via Air: There are many direct flights available from major Indian cities to France. It'll most likely take you to Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Paris.

• Via Sea: There are plenty of cruises that take you to France from India. You can also book a cruise ride from Mumbai.

If your budget is tight you can consider other flights that usually have a layover. You can catch a flight for France from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai.

Step 2: Buy France Travel Insurance

Buying international travel insurance in France is extremely important for two reasons:

• Firstly, you need to be protected from any emergencies that may prove to be financially disastrous to you
• Secondly, it is mandatory to buy Schengen travel insurance as France falls within the Schengen zone and you will not be issued a visa otherwise.

France is also one of the costliest cities in the world and even a single visit to the hospital can totally wreck your budget. With France travel insurance, you will be safe from many emergencies like delayed flights, lost passports, stolen baggage, hospitalisation, medical evacuation and more.

Step 3: Pack for France: Travel Trips

• While English is spoken in France, your trip will go better if you learn some French phrases. French people really take pride in their language and appreciate it when tourists put in these efforts!
• If you're on a budget, consider buying ingredients from supermarkets instead of having every meal in a cafe.
• The best time to visit France is April to June but you should be ready for expensive accommodation & rentals.
• Keep your wallet safe! Being a crowded city full of tourists, you should always carry a strong sling bag or tuck away all valuables.
• 112 is the emergency helpline in case you are ever in trouble.
• Always carry your passport or a copy of your passport when you're outside your hotel.
• Don't forget to carry a good adapter so that all your devices are charged.