France is the most visited country in the world for a reason. It is home to some of the world’s most magnificent wines and foods, as well as some of the most breathtaking locations.
Indeed, there are innumerable sights across Hexagone that will wow you no matter where you walk. There is more than enough to satiate inquisitive tourists, from towering dunes and magnificent towns to rolling vineyards and tumbling canyons.
But it might be daunting to decide which locations in France to visit because there is so much to see and do.
These are our top choices to help you narrow down your options and get ideas for your travel bucket list:
1. Champagne: home of Dom Pérignon
Honestly, a list of the top French tourist destinations wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t include the country of Bubbly’s invention. For those who enjoy bubbly, a trip to the Champagne area, situated in northeastern France and about a 1.5-hour drive from Paris, is a must.
Seeing the sunset over the picturesque vineyards and surreal scenery is a compelling enough incentive to travel to the area. Having said that, a tour of one of the esteemed Champagne houses is available to those who want to taste the produce. And if they decide to overindulge, this could not make for an unforgettable experience!
Among the renowned houses that welcome the public are Moët & Chandon, Veuve Cliquot, Taittinger, and Dom Pérignon. The latter is most recognized for its namesake, a Benedictine monk who played a significant role in the development of Champagne wine quality.
But in contrast to the common assumption, Dom Pérignon did not create the well-known wine itself. This is only one of the numerous things you will discover when you visit the Abbey of Hautvillers, where his crypt and ultimate resting place are located.
2. Provence: land of lavender
Provence is one of the most picturesque and aromatic destinations in France during the summer months because of the never-ending sea of lavender fields.
During this time of year, the heavenly-scented crop is virtually universally available across the region. Nevertheless, the Valensole Plateau, the Sault Plateau, and the Luberon Valley are a few of the most picturesque locations to take in the scenery.
However, nothing compares to the flower meadows that round the Notre-Dame de Sénanque Abbey for the perfect postcard image. Every June and July, a sea of purple covers this magnificent 12th-century church, which is tucked away in the peaceful countryside not far from the town of Gordes.
The abbey’s monks take great care of these lovely lavender fields, as do the neighbourhood beekeepers. Guests are welcome to stay with them and have a calm, contemplative getaway. However, if you would rather limit your visit to a single day, the fields are accessible from 9:30 in the summer until 13:00 on Sundays.
Just keep in mind that the area is very popular during this season due to its unique charm. As a result, be sure to arrive early and attend the 10:30 tour, which is the first of the day.
3. Gorges du Verdon: the Grand Canyon of France
If visiting the Grand Canyon in Arizona seems too ambitious, you could always go for its French equivalent. The 700-meter-deep Gorges du Verdon, which are tucked away in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur area of southeast France, are a sight to see.
The greatest limestone canyon in Europe is carved by the Verdon River. Watersports and other high-adrenaline activities are also popular there. A remarkable experience is sailing the 25 kilometres of captivating blue waterways that flow into the man-made Lac de Sainte-Croix. However, more daring visitors might want to risk the rapids via white-water rafting.
Hiking the 100 kilometres of the canyon rim or riding a horse and making your way through the sheer limestone cliffs make for a more leisurely day. But whatever you decide to do, make sure your camera is ready. This is, after all, one of France’s most gorgeous tourist destinations.
4. Mont Saint-Michel: the real Rapunzel’s Tower
There are several picturesque villages in France. But few, with its imposing abbey, are as magical and otherworldly as Mont Saint-Michel. Located around 600 meters offshore from Normandy on the rocky island of Mont Saint-Michel, this remarkable medieval abbey appears as though it was taken right out of a children’s fantasy.
The charming timber-framed cottages and winding, tiny alleyways that lead up to this add to its beauty. Rapunzel’s Tower and the Kingdom of Corona in Disney’s Tangled were modelled in this gorgeous location.
In the eighth century, the magnificent island hamlet was a popular destination for Christian pilgrims. But now, more than three million visitors visit it annually as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Aside from Paris, it continues to be one of the most visited locations in France. Having said that, the island appears less welcoming due to the large sandbank and ocean around it.
Conclusion
Apart from these amazing places, you may also include Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest dune; Saint-Tropez, a land of luxury with a sun-drenched coastal beach; Rocamadour, the sacred hilltop pilgrimage; the Loire Valley, the Garden of France; and Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park in your itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and visit the most beautiful country. To learn more, visit www.thepennywize.com.
FAQs:
Which part of France is the best?
- Chamonix is one of the most famous ski resorts in the Alps.
- Lyon is the main city in the Rhone Valley.
- A view of the riverfront in Bordeaux.
- Strasbourg is the main city in the Alsace region.
- The French Riviera is one of the country’s most popular regions to visit.
Is traveling to France inexpensive?
If you don’t manage your money well, France may ruin it. Tours aren’t always inexpensive, and lodging and dining out may be costly. Thankfully, there are several methods to cut costs while in France without compromising your trip experience.
Whose beauty is greater, France or Italy?
Italy wins the city category if we split it down. A nation that boasts Rome, Venice, Naples, and Milan is unavoidable. However, France has the category down pat when it comes to beaches.
