Top 10 Places to Visit in France
France is more than just Paris — it’s castles, vineyards, beaches, and mountain villages. I only spent three days in Paris (for my birthday!), but it completely lived up to the dream. The rest of the country is high on my list to explore one day. Here are the top 10 places to visit in France:
1. Paris 🌟 Did This
The City of Light — art, romance, and history on every corner. I explored the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Montmartre, the Louvre, and even celebrated my birthday with French cheese, bread, and wine. Paris felt like stepping into a dream.
💡 JD’s Tip: Book Louvre tickets early and head straight to the Mona Lisa before the crowds build.
Eiffel Tower views never get old — a true Paris highlight.
2. Versailles 👑 ❌ Missed This
A royal palace just outside Paris, famous for its golden halls, gardens, and fountains.
💡 JD’s Tip: Go early to enjoy the gardens before they fill up.
3. Loire Valley 🏰 ❌ Missed This
Known for its fairytale châteaux, rolling countryside, and vineyards.
💡 JD’s Tip: Rent a bike or car to hop between castles at your own pace.
4. Provence 🌸 ❌ Missed This
Lavender fields, olive groves, and charming villages.
💡 JD’s Tip: Visit in July for the lavender in full bloom.
5. French Riviera (Nice, Cannes, Monaco) 🌊 ❌ Missed This
Glamorous beaches, festivals, and seaside towns along the Mediterranean.
💡 JD’s Tip: Take the train along the coast for stunning views.
6. Normandy 🌊 ❌ Missed This
D-Day landing beaches, historic towns, and the incredible Mont Saint-Michel rising out of the sea.
💡 JD’s Tip: Try the cider and cheese — Normandy is famous for both.
7. Alsace (Strasbourg & Colmar) 🍷 ❌ Missed This
Storybook towns with half-timbered houses and some of France’s best wine routes.
💡 JD’s Tip: Visit in December for magical Christmas markets.
8. Lyon 🍲 ❌ Missed This
France’s food capital, where every street feels like a feast.
💡 JD’s Tip: Try a traditional bouchon for local dishes like quenelles and sausages.
9. Bordeaux 🍇 ❌ Missed This
A wine lover’s paradise, surrounded by vineyards and historic architecture.
💡 JD’s Tip: Book a wine tour to sample the region’s famous reds.
10. Chamonix & the French Alps 🏔️ ❌ Missed This
For mountains, skiing, and breathtaking alpine views.
💡 JD’s Tip: Even if you don’t ski, take the cable car up Mont Blanc for spectacular scenery.
