France consistently ranks as the world’s most visited country, and for good reason. From dramatic coastlines to alpine peaks, and medieval villages to cosmopolitan cities, France offers travelers an incredible diversity of experiences. After exploring this captivating country, I’ve compiled a practical guide to my top 10 must-visit destinations in France.
1. Mont Saint-Michel
If you’re looking for a magical experience in France, Mont Saint-Michel should top your list. This medieval abbey perched atop a tidal island off Normandy’s coast creates one of the most breathtaking silhouettes in Europe.
Once you pass through the city gate, the narrow, winding streets seem to transport you back to another era. The most breathtaking sight is the monastery, whose architecture dates back to the 10th century. Its unique geographical location and treacherous tides have always protected it from foreign invaders, adding to its mystique.
Time your visit to witness the impressive tides that can rise remarkably quickly, transforming the surrounding landscape.
2. The French Alps & Chamonix
For mountain enthusiasts, the French Alps offer some of Europe’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Located at the foot of the majestic Mont Blanc (the highest peak in Western Europe at 4,807 meters), Chamonix is the ideal base for exploring the Alps.
The must-do experience here is taking the cable car to Aiguille du Midi. This impressive gondola holds the world record for the highest vertical ascent, climbing over 2,800 meters in just 20 minutes. At €69 for a round-trip ticket, it’s not cheap but worth the investment.
At the summit (3,843 meters), you’ll notice the thinner air as you explore walkways and viewing platforms offering spectacular panoramas of Mont Blanc and surrounding peaks. The sight of mountaineers setting off across the glaciers is particularly fascinating.
Another worthwhile excursion is the train to Mer de Glace, Europe’s second-largest glacier. Consider purchasing the “Mont Blanc Multi Pass” (about €83) which includes both the Aiguille du Midi lift and this train journey. Sit on the left side of the train for the best views.
3. Annecy
Just an hour’s drive from Chamonix lies Annecy, the enchanting “Venice of the Alps.” This picturesque town is built around canals that wind through its historic center, creating postcard-perfect scenes at every turn.
While the town itself is charming, Lake Annecy is the real showstopper. Renowned as one of Europe’s cleanest lakes, its crystal-clear waters are framed by an amphitheater of mountains, creating a stunning natural playground perfect for swimming in summer.
Take time to visit the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, which overlooks the lake. This magnificent castle dates back 1,000 years and is one of the most spectacular castles in the Alps. For €11, you can enter the well-preserved interior and courtyard and get a glimpse of the life of medieval nobility.
4. The Calanques near Cassis
Cassis, a seaside town with classic French charm, provides the perfect base for exploring one of France’s most spectacular natural wonders: the Calanques. These dramatic limestone coves with towering white cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters represent Mediterranean paradise at its finest.
For the best experience, go early to avoid crowds and bring plenty of water, especially if hiking in summer when temperatures can soar.
5. Étretat
Three hours from Paris in Normandy, Étretat offers some of France’s most dramatic coastal scenery. The star attractions are the massive chalk sea cliffs with distinctive arches and needle-like sea stacks known as L’Aiguille.
After exploring the charming coastal town and its pebble beach, take the path up to the cliff tops for the most impressive views. The three natural arches carved by the sea are best appreciated from these heights, and on clear days, the vista stretches for miles.
For a truly memorable experience, stay until sunset when the dying light bathes the white cliffs in warm orange hues, creating a magical atmosphere. The ever-changing weather can add drama to your visit – morning sea fog, for instance, creates an entirely different but equally captivating landscape.
6. Paris
No list of French tourist destinations would be complete without the capital city of Paris. Since the 17th century, Paris has been the cultural, fashion, and artistic center of Europe, and its reputation as a romantic and elegant city is well deserved.
The iconic Eiffel Tower provides the city’s most recognizable silhouette. Built for the 1889 World Fair, it stood as the world’s tallest man-made structure until 1930 and continues to impress visitors with its engineering and beauty.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Louvre, the world’s largest art museum, and home to thousands of masterpieces, including da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. The magnificent Arc de Triomphe offers stunning city views, especially at sunset, while the Palace of Versailles just outside the city provides a glimpse into royal extravagance.
Although Paris is worth spending several days exploring, even a brief visit to its main attractions is enough to understand why this city continues to attract visitors from all over the world.
7. The Loire Valley Châteaux
Located about two hours west of Paris, the Loire Valley is known as the world capital of castles, with more than 300 French castles scattered across a relatively compact area. Its unique geographical location, fertile land, and competition between royal families have created this extraordinary collection of architectural treasures.
Château de Chambord is the largest castle in the valley, covering an area equivalent to that of Paris. It is said that part of the castle was designed by Leonardo da Vinci. This Renaissance masterpiece took 28 years to complete (finished in 1547) – it features a unique square moat and a complex roofline adorned with towers and chimneys.
Equally impressive is Château de Chenonceau, whose elegant arches span the Cher River. This architectural marvel from the early 16th century, often referred to as the “Ladies’ Castle” due to the influential women who owned it throughout history, combines stunning design with beautiful gardens.
8. Corsica
For travelers seeking diverse landscapes in a single destination, Corsica is the perfect choice. This mountainous Mediterranean island combines rugged peaks with France’s most pristine coastline.
Bonifacio, perched dramatically on southern Corsica’s limestone cliffs, offers one of the island’s most spectacular settings. This medieval fortress town appears to grow directly from the white cliffs, earning its nickname “the Mediterranean Sentinel.” The old town’s narrow streets and historic buildings provide a fascinating glimpse into Corsican history.
Don’t miss the Calanques de Piana on the western coast, where distinctive red cliffs plunge dramatically into the azure sea. The winding coastal road offers breathtaking viewpoints, while nearby beaches like Plage de Bussaglia provide perfect spots to relax.
Corsica’s unique position – culturally influenced by both France and Italy – gives it a distinct character that sets it apart from mainland France, making it feel like a completely different destination.
9. Èze
Perched on a rocky peak overlooking the French Riviera, the medieval village of Èze offers one of the most atmospheric experiences in southern France. Located just 30 minutes from Nice, this 14th-century stone village feels worlds away from the glamour of the coast below.
Follow winding stone stairs and cobblestone paths up through the village. The narrow passages, stone archways, and buildings that grow organically from the hillside create an immersive step back in time.
The highlight is the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique) at the village summit. The €6 entry fee grants access to beautifully maintained gardens featuring cacti and Mediterranean plants, but the real attraction is the panoramic view of the coastline stretching toward Monaco and Italy. The contrast between the ancient stone village and the glistening Mediterranean below creates a uniquely memorable vista.
10. Verdon Gorge
Often called Europe’s Grand Canyon, the Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon) showcases some of France’s most dramatic natural beauty. Located about two hours from Nice in Provence, this limestone canyon with its striking turquoise river offers outdoor adventures and spectacular scenery.
The viewpoint at Pont du Galetas provides the classic postcard view of the gorge, where dramatic limestone cliffs contrast with the unnaturally blue-green waters of the Verdon River. This color results from glacial minerals suspended in the water, creating a visual effect that seems almost artificial in its intensity.
Explore the canyon by chartered boat or kayak and enjoy spectacular views of the canyon walls from the water.
Alternatively, drive the rim roads for spectacular viewpoints or hike the many trails that offer various perspectives on this natural wonder.
Planning Your French Adventure
When visiting France, consider these practical tips:
- Best Time to Visit: May-June and September-October offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than peak summer months.
- Transportation: France’s extensive rail network makes traveling between major cities very convenient. However, for exploring rural areas such as the Loire Valley or Provence, renting a car is the most flexible option.
- Language: Download a translation app to help navigate non-English areas.
- Regional Focus: Rather than trying to see everything, consider focusing on one or two regions to reduce travel time and develop a deeper appreciation for each area’s unique character.
From alpine heights to Mediterranean beaches, and historic villages to cosmopolitan cities, France rewards travelers with incredible diversity and timeless beauty. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, architectural treasures, or culinary delights, these top 10 destinations offer a perfect introduction to the many facets of this extraordinary country.
Stay connected during your trip to France.
Instead of dealing with high roaming charges or hunting for a physical SIM card, make your life easier. Download, install, and activate your France eSIM from eSIMX and enjoy your trip to France with peace of mind.
eSIMX France eSIM 10GB for only $8.8, making it easy to stay online no matter where you are.
