France Bucket List: Best Experiences to Have

France is the kind of country that people dream about. With its iconic landmarks and distinct cultural attributes, it holds a special place in the world when it comes to bucket list travel experiences. Unlike other countries, the kind of tourist experience this much sought-after European destination offers, is one that will linger on in your memories, long after you return.

For the same reason, it comes as no surprise that travellers often have solid France bucket lists marked by quintessential French things to see and do. But with so many attractions in store, where do you start and end?

Here is a guide to some of the best experiences in France for a head start.

If you have a France tour in mind, you indeed must make sure to add and check off every one of these from your France bucket list.

The 10 Most Epic Experiences to Add to Your France Bucket List
Wrapping Up: The Best Experiences to Add to Your France Bucket List
FAQs
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The 10 Most Epic Experiences to Add to Your France Bucket List

While a list of 10 things to see and do in France cannot cover all of France’s overwhelming number of wholesome experiences, these sure help capture the essence of the country. From touring one of the most visited structures in the world, to basking in sunny lavender fields, this list will help you feel the heart and soul of France.

Climb the iconic Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Neirfy

Number one is a no-brainer. A France visit would be futile if you did not experience one of the most iconic structures in the world – the Eiffel Tower, up close. Everything from the climb to the monument itself, and the views from the top, are amazing to say the least. Live your Hollywood and Bollywood dreams here! You can choose from several options when it comes to touring the landmark; the place offers full-blown guided tours as well as entry tickets to specific floors, and dinner experiences. No matter what you choose, be sure to live through the moments mindfully while also taking pictures to remember this legendary France bucket list activity forever.

Witness a lavender field in Provence

The iconic lavender fields of Provence, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/fokke baarssen

The lavender fields of Provence are simply put, a piece of purple paradise. To witness the fields in full bloom would be to glimpse heaven; you’d have to pinch to make sure the experience is real. With rows and rows of gorgeous lavender flowers and the hypnotic fragrance that accompanies them, you will be nothing short of awestruck. Wander around like a child in a wonderland, click pictures and make sure to carry back a souvenir; there are plenty of options available nearby including artisanal products like essential oils, confections, and keychain sets.

An important thing to remember when trying to check off this France bucket list experience is to visit at the right time. The best time to see the lavender fields of Provence is from mid-June to mid-August. Plan your France tour packages around this time to make sure you don’t miss the spectacle.

Also Read: 10 Unobvious Things to Know Before Visiting France

Soak up the wonder that is the Palace of Versailles

The main entrance of the Palace of Versailles, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/DaLiu

Visiting the famous Palace of Versailles is one of the top ten things to do in France. Located a little over an hour from Paris, this colossal monument offers an entire day’s worth of things to see and do. Right when you get to the gates of the palace, you will notice a distinct aura of sheer opulence. From there, every little element within the premises of the palace offers inspiring experiences.

Starting from the Hall of Mirrors to the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, the expansive gardens, the fountains, the Trianon Estates and the Royal Tennis Court, the place brims with stunning attractions. You can choose to take one of the many pre-set tours depending on your time availability and interests.

For the best experience, book your stay at one of the best hotels in Paris and choose to go on a weekend getaway to Versailles, or a day trip.

Spend a day admiring the Louvre

The Louvre Museum, Paris, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/oscar garces

Touristy, but worth it, the famous Louvre is indeed one of the best things to see in France. The massive building holds some of the greatest works of art in the world such as the Mona Lisa, and the Dying Slave. Aside from admiring some of the finest pieces on the planet, you can also learn more about ancient civilizations of Rome, Egypt, and Greece here.

Set aside a day to explore the museum as you will need ample time to grasp the revelations as you learn more.

Go on a food tour in Lyon

Street food stall at Lyon city, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Sun_Shine

Lyon – France’s culinary capital holds an immersive food experience in store for you. In fact, indulging in French cuisine in Lyon is one of the must do things in France. Housing some of the best bouchons, pattisseries, Michelin-star restaurants, and more, the city is a culinary haven, more so for food lovers. Go on a pre-set Lyonnaise guided food tour to cover the best of the city’s food offerings through tastings, anecdotes, and tips, or choose to fly solo while going bouchon-hopping to experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine.

Either way, when you are finished you will be left with a new-found love for not just French food, but also the way the French indulge in food – slow, mindful, and flavourful.

Book your stay at one of the best hotels in Lyon to catch a better wave of this France bucket list experience.

Also Read: France Visa For Indians: Requirements, Eligibility, And How to Apply

Explore the Christmas markets in Alsace

Christmas street decorations, Christmas market Riquewihr, Alsace, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Frolova_Elena

Strasbourg in Alsace is an exceptional destination in France well known for its bustling holiday markets. In fact, it is nicknamed the Christmas capital of Europe. The place is a sight to behold in December with spectacular Christmas lights, decor, and endearing markets. In addition to the charm of the season, Alsace has picture-perfect landscapes with half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and rolling green hills. Visit the quaint little towns, explore the Christmas markets in the region, and buy souvenirs to take a piece of the immersive experience home.

Be sure to plan well ahead of time as Christmas is considered peak season in Alsace.

Take a picture of Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint Michel at Spring, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Neirfy

Mont Saint-Michel is hands-down one of the top tourist attractions in France. This tidal island in Normandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features the stunning Benedictine Gothic-style abbey, an important pilgrim center and monument. What’s fascinating is that it is perched atop a rocky island – a feat only the best of Gothic architecture can pull off. The place is also known for its unique tidal waves, and impressive prison history, making it the “Bastille of the Seas”.

Take official tours from nearby towns like Caen, or go on a solo roadtrip to visit the island yourself. When you get there, take a picture of the majestic site to seal the memory of this France bucket list experience forever.

Go castle hopping in the Loire Valley

Château de Villandry, Loire Valley, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Lev Levin

The Loire Valley is a gem of destination for history buffs as well as foodies and wine lovers. The place is home to several well-known wine producing regions and hence boasts the world’s finest wines including the likes of Sauvignon Blanc, and Chenin Blanc. In addition to that, there is one other thing that the “Garden of France” is famous for – castles! Housing over 300 castles each playing its part in France’s unique history, the region offers the perfect excuse to go castle-hopping. Some of its most prominent attractions are Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Château de Villandry. Besides these, Loire Valley also features stunning gardens, vineyards, and orchards, all of which are a treat to the eyes and the soul. Add this destination to your France bucket list to get a little closer to France’s history.

Try the local cheese varieties

Cheese varieties for sale, Paris, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Emily Marie Wilson

Among the top France attractions is cheese. The country is home to lush farms and historical farmlands producing a variety of regional cheeses, giving way to over 1200 types, including both artisanal and industrial. While you tour through France, learn more about each region’s specialities and indulge in their artisanal varieties in blue cheese, goat cheese, soft cheese, and pressed cheese. Start with some of the most popular ones such as Brie, Camembert, Roquefort and Comté, and proceed to try specialty items and see if you find a favourite. Your France bucket list would be incomplete without an experience of gourmet French cheese, so be sure to make time for this exciting activity.

Visit the Catacombs in Paris

Skulls and bones in the Paris Catacombs, France
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Netfalls Remy Musser

Last but not least on our list of the best experiences in France, is a relatively new tourist attraction – the Catacombs of Paris. Because it offers a unique view of France’s history, the place is quickly becoming a major hub for tourists. Featuring a network of tunnels that hold the remains of over 6 million people including many notable figures, the Catacombs, believed to have been created in the 18th century, was meant to be a solution for the pressing problem of overcrowded cemeteries and health issues at the time. A portion of this vast network is open for tours; you can take guided tours or audio tours to witness this fascinating phenomenon. The experience on the whole including the descent down a narrow spiral staircase, is indeed an exciting one.

Also Read: France Beyond Paris: 5 Beautiful French Villages Every Indian Must Visit

Wrapping Up: The Best Experiences to Add to Your France Bucket List

From climbing the Eiffel Tower to being fascinated by the mortal remains of 6 million people stacked in an underground tunnel, France is a treasure trove of unique and iconic experiences. If you are in for a memorable and well-rounded France tour, one where you also get to absorb some of the country’s impressive culture, then this is your guide. Add these must-do activities to your France bucket list to come back feeling accomplished and inspired.

Book niche France tour packages to enjoy some hidden gems in the country as well. Apply for your France visa with a reliable provider of online visa services for 180+ countries well in advance for a hassle-free trip.

Quick Summary – Experiences to Add to Your France Bucket List

France offers some of the most iconic experiences in the world. The growing number of visitors to the country every year further reinforces the idea. To experience the best of the country, the top 10 best experiences to add to your France bucket list are climbing the Eiffel tower, witnessing a lavender field in Provence, visiting the Palace of Versailles, visiting the Louvre, going on a food tour in Lyon, exploring the Christmas markets in Alsace, visiting Mont-Saint Michel, going castle hopping in the Loire Valley, trying the local cheese varieties, and visiting the Catacombs of Paris.

FAQs

What is the most famous thing in France?

Some of the most famous attractions in France are the Eiffel Tower, the Palace of Versailles, the Louvre Museum, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Loire Valley, the French Riviera, and Mont-Saint Michel.

What is the most famous event in France?

The Cannes Film Festival is considered one of the most famous events in France. Typically held in May, it is renowned for its film premieres, star-studded red carpet, and after parties.

What is Paris’ most iconic?

The Eiffel Tower is Paris’ most iconic landmark.

What is the coolest thing about France?

The coolest thing about France is that the country is home to several iconic landmarks in the world. The French also hold their culture and traditions close to their heart; implying that a visit demands a closer understanding of the same. Besides these, French gastronomy is considered a UNESCO cultural heritage, the food and wine consumed in the country are top-notch with distinct regional French influences.

Is the Mona Lisa in France?

Yes, the famous painting of Mona Lisa by Da Vinci has been on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris since 1797.

What’s the best time of the year to visit Paris?

The best time of the year to visit Paris is between April and May in spring, and between September and October in fall. These times bring the most pleasant weather with fewer crowds. However, to experience a more festive atmosphere, visit Paris during winter in December.

What should I wear to the Louvre?

The Louvre Museum in Paris does not have a strict dress code. However, the place does not allow nudity and inappropriate clothing like swimsuits. It is best to wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes to visit, as you will need to do a lot of walking.

What are the 5 main France festivals?

The top 5 unmissable festivals in France are:

Cannes Film Festival
Fête de la Musique
Festival d’Avignon
Nice Carnival
Lumière Festival

What souvenirs to buy in Provence?

Some of the best things to buy for souvenirs in Provence are:

Lavender products such as essential oils, fragrances, and more
French soaps
Local handcrafted jewelry
Handmade pottery and ceramics
Paintings of the lavender fields
Keychains and fridge magnets

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