France is one of the most important nations in the Western world, both historically and culturally. It holds medieval cities, alpine villages, Mediterranean beaches and is famous for its wines and sophisticated cuisine. France is rich with its culture, architecture and atmosphere. Lucky enough, we have selected the best thing to do in France to get the full experience.
- When people think of France, the Eiffel Tower instantly comes to mind. The tower has become an icon for France, which is located in the country’s capital, Paris. The Eiffel Tower was constructed as the entrance of the 1889 World’s Fair and has become one of the most recognizable structures since.
- The art scene in France is popular and hold some of the most visited museums and art galleries in the world. The famous Louvre Museum in Paris is without a doubt one the finest art galleries where many people from all over the world visit it to see the Mona Lisa. There is also the Orsay Museum that was originally designed as a train station, Centre Pompidou and the Rodin Museum.
- If you’re an avid shopper, Avenue de Champs-Élysées is the perfect place for you. It is 1.9 kilometers long and 70 meters wide that is filled with various shops, some of which are high-end. At night it completely lights up and at the end of the strip, you can see the Arc de Triomphe.
- All throughout France, there is history and the medieval châteaux play an important factor. The beautiful castles have transformed since the Middle Ages where it was once used for war but now are grand estates, stately homes or tourist sites. Those that have been kept in good condition can be found in various places from Alsace to Aquitaine and Provence to Burgundy.
- The high altitude in France makes it some of the best places to powder ski. As snow piles up in certain areas, like Val d’Isère/Tignes, Chamonix and La Grave, many people have to ski in some of the best resorts in Europe.
- If you are looking to get rid of your tan lines, there a multiple nude/naturist beaches that will allow you to do so. Don’t get confused with the public beaches that allow half-nudity (being topless) because that’s not considered complete nude and is done quite common. France has become a home to several nude beaches and resorts and even has a “Naked City” at Cap d’Agde. You are allowed to shop, eat and roam the streets naked as well.
- The Palace of Versailles has become a national landmark was it was once a former French royal residence and center of government. With it’s pristine architecture, beautiful garden and long history, UNESCO made the palace and its gardens a World Heritage Site.
- An easy and quick way to get around France is through its TGV trains. These trains have set the fastest record in wheeled transportation and also connect through various different countries.
- Le Tricolore stands for the blue-white-red, which might ring a bell because those are the exact colors on the French flag. These colors were adopted in the French Revolution and since then, has become of the most famous tricolours.
- At the western end of the Champs-Élysées stands the iconic Arc de Triomphe. This monument honours those who have fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. It’s intricate details are captivating but be careful with the roundabout it is located on. There are two underpasses located at Champs Élysées and the Avenue de la Grande Armée.
- Montmartre offers a typical Parisian feel as you stroll through the area. It’s located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris where many artists reside and where films have taken place. Montmartre is also known for its nightlife and home to the Moulin Rouge. You can also find the famous white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur on its hilltop.
Emily is a freelance writer and content creator who loves exploring and getting to know new places and people. She enjoys using her creativity to capture moments – increasing her interest in photography and filmmaking which can be seen on her Instagram account: emilymgarces.
