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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions

in France

From the boulevards of Paris to the fashionable seaside resorts of

the Cte d'Azur, France offers some of the most beautiful scenery in
the world. France delights romantics with fairy-tale castles, soaring
cathedrals, and picture-perfect villages, yet still impresses realists with
its progressive, contemporary style. Begin with the Eiffel Tower, the
modern emblem of France. Then discover famous masterpieces of art
at the Louvre Museum. Spend a day pretending to be royalty at the
elegant Palace of Versailles. Save time for leisurely gourmet meals;
traditional French gastronomy has been inscribed on the UNESCO list of
Intangible Cultural Heritage. Each region has its own distinctive cuisine
and culture. Quaint fishing villages of Brittanyspecialize in crpes and
seafood, while cozy chalets in the French Alps serve hearty cheese
fondue with charcuterie. Indulge in it all and savor the irresistible
charm of France.

1 Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower
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The symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is one of the world's most famous landmarks. This
feat of ingenuity is a structure of 8,000 metallic parts, designed by Gustave Eiffel as a
temporary exhibit for the World Fair of 1889. Originally loathed by critics, the 320-meterhigh tower is now a beloved and irreplaceable fixture of the Paris skyline. The
structure's unique gracefulness has earned it the nickname of "Iron Lady." Visitors are
impressed by the tower's monumental size and the breathtaking panoramas at each of
the three levels. Tourists can dine with a view at the first level or indulge at the Michelinstarred Jules Vernes restaurant on the second level. At the exhilarating height of 276
meters, the top level offers a sweeping outlook over the city of Paris and beyondextending as far as 70 kilometers on a clear day.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Paris - TripAdvisor.com

Read More:

The Eiffel Tower: A Visitor's Guide

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

2 Louvre Museum
Louvre Museum
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In the former royal palace of French Kings, the Louvre is an incomparable museum that
ranks among the top European collections of fine arts. Many of Western Civilization's
most famous works are found here including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo DaVinci,
the Wedding Feast at Canaby Veronese, and the 1st-century-BC Venus de
Milo sculpture. The collection owes its wealth to the contributions of various kings who
lived in the Louvre. Other pieces were added as a result of France's treaties with
the Vatican and the Republic of Venice, and from the spoils of Napolon I. The Louvre
has an astounding collection of 30,000 artworks, including countless masterpieces. It's
impossible to see it all in a day or even in a week. Focus on a shortlist of key artworks
for the most rewarding experience.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Paris - TripAdvisor.com

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Exploring the Top Attractions of the Louvre Museum: A Visitor's Guide

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

3 Palace of Versailles
Palace of Versailles
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More than just a royal residence, Versailles was designed to show off the glory of the
French monarchy. "Sun King" Louis XIV transformed his father's small hunting lodge
into an opulent palace with a sumptuous Baroque interior. The palace became Louis
XIV's symbol of absolute power and set the standard for princely courts in Europe.
Architect Jules Hardouin-Mansartcreated the elegant Baroque facade and lavish
interior. The famous Hall of Mirrors is where courtiers waited for an audience with the
king. This dazzling hall sparkles with sunlight that enters through the windows and is
reflected off massive ornamental mirrors. Versailles is equally renowned for its formal

French gardens featuring decorative pools, perfectly trimmed shrubbery, and charming
fountains. Beyond the formal gardens is Marie-Antoinette's hamlet, a make-believe
pastoral village where the queen came to dress up as a peasant and escape court life.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near the Palace of Versailles - TripAdvisor.com

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Exploring the Chteau de Versailles: A Visitor's Guide

4 Cte d'Azur
Cte d'Azur
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The most fashionable stretch of coastline in France, the Cte d'Azur is synonymous with
glamour. The Cte d'Azur translates to "Coast of Blue," named after the mesmerizing
deep blue color of the Mediterranean Sea. Also known as the French Riviera, the Cte
d'Azur extends fromSaint-Tropez to Menton near the border with Italy. During summer,
the seaside resorts are packed with beach lovers and sun-worshippers. The rich and
famous are also found here in their lavish villas and luxury yachts. The town of Nice has
panoramic sea views and stellar art museums. Cannes is famous for its celebrity film
festival and legendary hotels. The best sandy beaches are found in Antibes. SaintTropez offers great beaches along with the charm of a Provenal fishing village,
while Monaco seduces with its exclusive ambience and stunning scenery.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Cte d'Azur - TripAdvisor.com

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10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Cte d'Azur

5 Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel
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Rising dramatically out of the sea on the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is one
of France's most striking landmarks. This "Pyramid of the Seas" is a mystical sight,
perched on a rocky islet and surrounded by walls and bastions. At high tide, Mont-SaintMichel is an island. At low tide, it is possible to walk across the sand to the Mont. The

main tourist attraction, the Abbaye de Saint-Michel was founded in 708 by the
Archbishop Aubert of Avranches after the Archangel Michael appeared to him in a
vision. The Abbey is a marvel of medieval architecture with Gothic spires soaring 155
meters above the sea, a sublime sanctuary, and splendid views. Since it was built in the
11th century, the Abbey Church has been an important pilgrimage destination. Because
of its soul-inspiring serenity, Mont Saint-Michel is known as "The Heavenly Jerusalem."
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Mont Saint-Michel - TripAdvisor.com

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Exploring Mont Saint-Michel: A Visitor's Guide

6 Loire Valley Chteaux

Loire Valley Chteaux
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Traveling through the Loire Valley feels like turning the pages of a children's storybook.
Throughout the enchanting countryside of woodlands and river valleys are fairy-tale
castles complete with moats and turreted towers. The entire area of the Loire Valley, a
lush area known as the "Garden of France," is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage
Site. Some of the Loire castles are medieval fortresses built on hilltops and surrounded
by ramparts. However the most famous Loire chteaux are sumptuous Renaissance
castles that were designed purely for enjoyment and entertaining, as an extension of
court life outside of Paris. The Chteau de Chambord, built for King Francis I, is the
most magnificent chteau; Chteau de Chenonceau has a distinctive feminine style;
and Cheverny is a charming manor house in idyllic surroundings.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Loire Valley - TripAdvisor.com

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Loire Valley

7 Cathdrale Notre-Dame de Chartres

Cathdrale Notre-Dame de Chartres Joe Shlabotnik
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For more than eight centuries, the magnificence of Chartres Cathedral has inspired the
faithful. Some say this breathtaking beauty of Chartres has restored belief in the
doubtful. The UNESCO-listed cathedral exemplifies the glory of medieval Gothic
architecture. Covering 2,500 square meters, the brilliant stained-glass windows allow
colorful light to filter into the vast nave, creating an ethereal effect. Many windows date
from the 13th century; all reveal the incredible craftsmanship in depicting biblical stories.
The rose windows are especially noteworthy for their incredible size and details. Other
highlights are the Passion window, one of the most original in its style and expression,
and the Blue Virgin window that dates from the 12th century. From April through
October, Chartres puts on a spectacular light show illuminating the cathedral at night.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Chartres - TripAdvisor.com

8 Provence
Provence
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Provence is a gorgeous landscape of olive groves, sun-drenched rolling hills, and deep
purple lavender fields, with little villages nestled in the valleys and perched on rocky
outcrops. The vibrant scenery has enchanted many famous artists, including Czanne,
Matisse, Chagall, and Picasso. Provence is a perfect blend of rustic natural beauty and
country charm where the art de vivre is a way of life. Take leisurely strolls along the
cobblestone streets and bask on sunny terraces of outdoor cafs. Visit the colorful
open-air markets and savor the delicious cuisine based on olive oil, vegetables, and
aromatic herbs. Aix-en-Provence is the most important market town. Arles has
fascinating ancient ruins and traditional festivals. Avignon was the medieval city of
popes. Even the tiny villages, like Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Saint-Rmy, and Gordes, have
amazing historic sites, fantastic museums, and an irresistibly quaint ambience.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Provence - TripAdvisor.com

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in the Provence Region & Scenic Drives

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aix-en-Provence

9 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

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The awesome spectacle of Mont Blanc in the French Alps is an unforgettable sight. The
highest mountain peak in Europe, Mont Blanc forms part of the French border with Italy.
Mont Blanc, "White Mountain," soars to 4,810 meters, so high that it's always blanketed
in snow. Beneath its heavenly peak is the traditional alpine village of Chamonix, nestled
in a high-mountain valley. This quaint little town is filled with historic churches, cozy
chalet restaurants, and charming auberges. Chamonix is a great base for skiing, hiking,
rock climbing, and outdoor adventures, or just relaxing. Soak up the serene scenery and
listen to the sound of rushing streams. Savor hearty meals of the rustic Savoy cuisinebased on potatoes, cheese, and charcuterie with specialties like fondue and raclette.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Chamonix - TripAdvisor.com

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

10 Alsace Villages
Alsace Villages
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Some of the prettiest villages in France are tucked away in the green rolling hills of
Alsace, where the Vosges Mountains border the Rhine River of Germany. These
picturesque Alsatian villages feature pastel-painted, half-timbered houses clustered
around small parish churches. Cheerful flowering balconies and pedestrian cobblestone
streets add to the charm. Many of the villages have won France's award for a "Village
Fleuris" (Flowering Village) such as Obernai with its characteristic burghers' houses,
floral-bedecked Ribeauvill, the "town of art and history"Guebwiller, and the
captivating medieval village of Bergheim. Some of the Alsace villages are also
designated as "Plus Beaux Villages de France" (Most Beautiful Villages of France)
such as the storybook hamlet of Riquewihr with its quaint historic houses, rustic yet
enchantingEguisheim nestled in a valley, and Mittelbergheim known for its
gastronomy and idyllic scenery.Colmar is a good base to explore the Alsatian villages
and surrounding nature trails.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Alsace - TripAdvisor.com

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17 Top-Rated Alsace Villages and Medieval Towns

11 Carcassonne
Carcassonne
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With its turreted towers and crenellated ramparts, Carcassonne seems straight out of a
fairy-tale scene. This well-preserved (and renovated) fortified city takes visitors into the
world of the Middle Ages. The walled town, known as the Cit, is a totally enclosed
world of narrow, winding cobblestone lanes and quaint old houses. Every street, square,
and building has retained its medieval character. Must-see tourist attractions are the
double-circuited ramparts with 54 towers and the 13th-14th-century Cathedral of SaintNazaire with spectacular stained-glass windows. Carcassonne is a fantastic place to
see Bastille Day fireworks on July 14th.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Carcassonne - TripAdvisor.com

12 Brittany
Brittany
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Brittany is a beautiful historic region on the northeastern coast of France. Rugged

seaside scenery, quaint fishing villages, and weathered sea ports characterize this
region. Brittany is proud of its ancient traditions and famous for its costumed religious
festivals. Brittany is also a mystical land of myths and legends, with a Celtic influence
and a dialect related to Gaelic. The local cuisine is delicious, best known for its savory
buckwheat crpes and sweet dessert crpes. The quintessential Breton port is SaintMalo surrounded by ancient walls. Quimper is a picture-postcard historic town with
handsome half-timbered houses, pleasant squares, and an impressive Gothic
cathedral. Nantes has a spectacular chteau and is where the Edict of Nantes was
signed in 1598 granting freedom of religious belief to Protestants. Other highlights of
Brittany are the pristine sandy beaches, tiny remote islands, and ancient castles.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Brittany - TripAdvisor.com

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brittany

13 Editor's PickBiarritz

Biarritz
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Biarritz is a fashionable beach town on the beautiful Bay of Biscay in France's Basque
country. This celebrated seaside resort has an elegant and aristocratic air; it was a
favorite destination ofEmpress Eugnie, wife of Napoleon III. The imperial couple's
grandiose Second-Empire-style palace has been converted into the Htel du Palais, a
luxury hotel featuring a Michelin-starred restaurant and sensational views of the Grande
Plage beach. This large sandy beach with its broad seafront promenade, has attracted
high-society vacation goers since the Belle Epoque. Other must-see sights are related
to the ocean: the Museum of the Sea, the Lighthouse, and theVirgin of the
Rock figure that stands along the coastline on an immense rock beaten by the Atlantic's
wild waves. For a taste of the town's regal past, visit the chic Miremont Tearoom that
has served exceptional pastries since 1872.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Biarritz - TripAdvisor.com

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Biarritz

14 Rocamadour
Rocamadour
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Suspended between heaven and earth on a sheer limestone cliff, Rocamadour is an

unforgettable sacred site. In the 11th century, this pilgrimage destination was the third
most important in Christendom after Jerusalem and Rome. Rocamadour was also a
stop on the medieval pilgrimage trail to Santiago de la Compostela in Spain. The village
has seven ancient sanctuaries, but pilgrims flock to the Chapelle NotreDame (Chapelle Miraculeuse) that possesses the venerated Black Virgin (Notre-Dame
de Rocamadour). This precious Virgin Mary figure was carved from walnut wood that
naturally darkened over the centuries and is associated with miracles. Another must-see
sight is the UNESCO-listed Basilique Saint-Sauveur, the largest church of
Rocamadour built in Romanesque and Gothic style between the 11th and 13th
centuries. For a challenging spiritual experience, pilgrims can ascend the steep flight of
steps, with 12 Stations of the Cross, leading up to the chteau at the highest point in
the village. Rocamadour is in a natural park of the Dordogne region about 145
kilometers from Limoges.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Rocamadour - TripAdvisor.com

15 Prehistoric Cave Paintings in Lascaux

Prehistoric Cave Paintings in Lascaux
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Visitors can delve into the fascinating world of prehistoric art in Lascaux, the finest
example of Paleolithic art in the world. This UNESCO-listed site is in the Vzre Valley
of the Dordogne region. Discovered in 1940, the Lascaux Cave contains exquisite
prehistoric paintings but has been closed to the public to prevent damage. A replica of
the cave was created at the nearby Lascaux II site, 200 meters from the actual
cave. Lascaux II is a faithful reproduction of the cave and its paintings. The Paleolithic
art has been carefully recreated, including every detail of the animal paintings in
authentic ochre hues. Highlights are the Salle des Taureaux (Hall of the Bulls) with
panels featuring unicorns and bears and the Diverticule Axial, a narrow 30-meter-long
hall with impressive drawings of bulls, cows, and horses. The art reproductions of
Lascaux II are so accurate that visitors would not be able to tell the difference from the
original.

http://www.historvius.com/features/tourist-attractions-in-france/

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in France

1. Palace of Versailles

One of the best known tourist attractions in France, few places better showcase the
opulence and grandeur of the French monarchy better than the Palace of Versailles.
Theres a huge amount to see here, from stunning architecture to fabulous furniture, art
and antiques and of course the magnificent gardens. Audio headsets are available as
are guided tours probably a good idea given the sheer scale of the place.

2. Mont Saint-Michel

If youre looking for a beautiful backdrop then this is hard to beat. A medieval town perched atop an imposing rocky
outcrop in Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the top attractions in France and contains, amongst other things, a
stunning Romanesque Abbey, medieval church and historic battlements. Be warned however that the steep climb to
Abbey is pretty darn demanding

3. WW1 Battlefields

A sombre reflection of a terrible conflict, the World War One battlefields are among the
most frequented tourist destinations in France. From the trenches of the Somme to the
solemn cemeteries and memorials and through to the museums which tell the story of
this sad time, these places remain a startling reminder of a history that should not be
forgotten.

4. Musee du Louvre

One of the best known major visitor attractions in France, the Louvre contains worldfamous art, sculpture and artefacts from periods spanning over 2,000 years of history.
Indeed, the very building itself is a 12th century fort turned medieval palace! The truth is
that theres simply so much to see youll never stand a chance of seeing it in a day, so
better just to plan out those elements you wish to explore and keep it on your bucket list
for another visit.

5. Nimes Arena

Not a standard entry on a list of Frances top tourist attractions, we think Nimes Arena
deserves to be here every time. What is probably the best preserved Roman
amphitheatre in the world better even than Romes Colosseum Nimes Arena really
gives you an idea of what it would have been like for Roman spectators. It includes an
interactive audio guide and some detailed exhibits to really bring the experience to life.

6. Carcassonne

Boasting a fairy-tale-like appearance and a history dating back to before the Roman era,
Carcassonne is a picturesque fortified town in Frances Languedoc-Roussillon region.
Theres a heap of great attractions to explore in Carcassonne, not least of which are the
incredible double fortified 3km walls which boasts 52 separate towers.

7. Eiffel Tower

Included on every top 10 list of visitor attractions in France, the Eiffel Tower dominates
the Parisian skyline and attracts thousands of tourists every day. This vast iron
monument was completed in 1889 based on the designs of engineer Gustave Eiffel, and
is one of the worlds most iconic landmarks. The most extensive views can be found on
the Towers 3rd level at 276m, which has its own separate lift from the second floor.

8. Pont du Gard

Its sometimes easy to forget that France was a crucial part of the Roman Empire for
hundreds of years, and indeed Frances Roman heritage is often forgotten from lists of
major tourist attractions. And quite frankly thats a shame, as France boasts some of the
best Roman sites in the world. Among the most arresting of these is Pont du Gard, a
wondrous and iconic ancient bridge and aqueduct which is now a spectacular sight to
visit.

9. D-Day Sites

Scene of one of the largest and most crucial wartime operations in history, the
Normandy beaches and other D-Day sights are among the top tourist attractions of
France. Visitors can explore the beaches themselves, museums examining the history
of D-Day as well as the locations of operations by Special Forces and airborne troops.
While youre in the area, take the time to visit the Bayeux Tapestry, and check out the
history of an invasion which went the other way!

10. Grotte de Font de Gaume

France is home to some of the most fascinating prehistoric locations in the world and
among the most visited of these ageless attractions is Grotte de Font de Gaume. A
prehistoric cave in Les Eyzies, Grotte de Font de Gaume contains a series of fascinating
wall paintings from this period and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage of the
Vezere Valley and its many prehistoric caves.