24+ top tourist attractions & best places to visit in France

What is the first thing that comes to mind when talking about French tourist attractions? “Light”, “architecture”, “art”, “music”, or “joy”? There are too many expectations when mentioning one of the most brilliant countries on the planet. So, where to go in France? Let’s check out 24+ top tourist attractions & best places to visit in France below!

For more than three decades, France has been the world’s top destination, with about 90 million international tourists flocking to it each year. They come to explore the architectural heritage, history, cultural quintessence, exquisite cuisine, picturesque countryside, and enjoy the hospitality and unique lifestyle of the people.

Traveling to France can be expensive for many people, making it difficult for those on a tight budget to take advantage of all the good things France has to offer. However, don’t panic, because we have picked out a lot of tips to help you travel to France economically without missing out on the most attractive things here.

Let’s plan your trip to France with us to be the most effective in terms of finance and time, so you are ready to immerse yourself in the Parisian autumn that makes so many people happy.

Famous Tourist Attractions in Paris, France

Located in the central area of ​​Île-de-France is the capital Paris, which has held an important position in this country for more than 2000 years. From a fishing village on an island in the middle of the Seine River – Île de la Cité, the city of Paris has developed into a place called “City of Love”, “City of Light” and many other beautiful words.

The capital Paris holds the world’s center for business, fashion, entertainment, art, and culture. Just mentioning Paris is enough to evoke a series of famous landmarks, museums, churches, street corner cafes or the most luxurious restaurants.

Musée du Louvre

The Louvre is one of the world’s leading cultural destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year. Located in the heart of Paris, France, this museum is home to countless valuable works of art and antiquities, reflecting the history and culture of humanity.

With a large area and huge collection, the Louvre is divided into many areas, each focusing on a different theme or art period. From ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman art to Renaissance, Baroque and modern paintings, the Louvre has excellent representatives.

With its unique architecture, combining the ancient and the modern, the Louvre is an artistic experience not to be missed. The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions, giving visitors the opportunity to discover new works of art.

To fully enjoy your visit, plan ahead, choose the galleries that suit your interests, and set aside enough time to explore.

Eiffel Tower – The Symbol of France

The Eiffel Tower, an iconic architectural masterpiece, is closely associated with the capital of Paris in particular and France in general. Standing out on the city’s landscape, the Eiffel Tower is a top check-in point for visitors around the world.

Built for the 1889 World Exhibition, the Eiffel Tower initially caused controversy over its unique design. However, with its impressive height and unique architecture, the Eiffel Tower became an engineering wonder of the time.

Climbing to the top of the Eiffel Tower is an experience not to be missed. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Paris, with the winding Seine River, ancient streets and other famous architectural works such as the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral.

The Eiffel Tower is not only an architectural work, but also has many tourist activities. You can enjoy a romantic meal at the restaurant on the top floor, shop at souvenir shops, or simply enjoy the open space on the observation decks.

Best places to visit in France: Arc de Triomphe – L’arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe (Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile) is a great historical and cultural symbol of France. Located in the center of Charles de Gaulle Square, where 12 avenues intersect, this neoclassical architectural work is a must-see.

Started construction in 1806 under Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, the Arc de Triomphe is a monument to the victory of the French army. On the surface of the Arc de Triomphe are elaborate reliefs depicting the heroic feats of the French army.

One of the highlights of the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located underground. The eternal flame burning here is a symbol of remembrance and honor for the soldiers who sacrificed for the country. From the top of the Arc de Triomphe, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Paris, with its wide boulevards, green parks and other famous architectural works.

Notre Dame Cathedral – Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral – a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is a long-standing symbol of the City of Light. With its soaring pointed arches, colorful rose windows and elaborate sculptures, the cathedral has become a must-see destination for visitors to Paris. Unlike Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, which bears the mark of French architecture, Notre Dame Cathedral possesses a more ancient and majestic beauty.

Standing in front of the cathedral, you will feel the majesty and splendor of an architectural work that has existed for hundreds of years. Stepping inside, you will be overwhelmed by the vast space, the sparkling light through the stained glass windows and the echoes of hymns. Take the time to explore the hidden corners of the cathedral, admire the sculptures telling stories from the Bible.

After visiting the cathedral, you can stroll on the Île de la Cité, enjoy a cup of coffee by the Seine River and enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Paris.

Seine River Cruise

The Seine is the soul of Paris, and a great way to explore the city is from the water. A Seine River Cruise is an experience not to be missed, taking you on a romantic and poetic journey through the heart of the city of lights.

While gliding along the river, you will have the opportunity to admire the famous symbols of Paris from a unique perspective. The magnificent Eiffel Tower, the ancient Notre Dame Cathedral, the majestic Alexandre III Bridge and many other architectural works will appear before your eyes like a vivid picture.

A Seine River Cruise offers different experiences depending on the time of day. In the morning, the sunlight shines down on the water, creating a bright and vibrant scene. Meanwhile, the evening is the perfect time to enjoy the romantic atmosphere with the city lights reflecting on the river.

Many tour companies offer a variety of cruise services, from intimate small boats to luxurious yachts. You can choose from packages that include dinner, live music or sightseeing.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Avignon, France

Avignon is a city located in the South of France. In the 14th century, Avignon became the most important city in Europe. This period endowed Avignon with a splendid landscape of splendid Gothic buildings and great historical value.

Place du Palais

Place du Palais is the most famous square in Avignon, with 3 main attractions: Palais des Papes, Rocher des Doms and Hôtel des Monnaies. These architectural wonders have existed for more than 700 years and are recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

Take your time to explore every corner of the square, join a tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the buildings, or simply sit on a bench, sip a cup of coffee and enjoy the fresh air. Place du Palais will surely leave you with unforgettable impressions.

Palais des Papes

You will not be able to imagine the grandeur of the 14th century Papal Palace until you see it with your own eyes. With a scale four times that of a normal church, this is one of the greatest Gothic architectural works in Europe.

When you step into the palace, you will be overwhelmed by the vast rooms, thick stone walls and soaring ceilings. Each room has its own beauty, from the Pope’s Room with its beautiful frescoes, to the Chapel of Saint Martial with its paintings depicting his life. The Apostolic Palace is not just an architectural work, but also a living history museum, where stories of power, religion and art of the Middle Ages are preserved.

Basilique Saint-Pierre d’Avignon

Dating back to the 194th century, the Basilique Saint-Pierre d’Avignon is an architectural masterpiece that harmoniously combines Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance styles. Its massive octagonal tower and elaborate facade are impressive highlights. Inside, you will be captivated by the beautiful stained glass paintings, exquisite sculptures and peaceful space.

The church was once the religious center of Avignon and had close ties to the neighboring Palais des Papes. Today, the Basilique Saint-Pierre d’Avignon is not only a famous tourist destination but also a venue for many cultural and artistic activities.

Pont Saint-Bénezet

If you have ever heard the cheerful melodies of the song Sur le Pont d’Avignon, then that is the Pont Saint-Bénezet bridge, also known as Pont d’Avignon, standing in the middle of the Rhône River like a giant telling historical stories.

Built in the 12th century, the bridge was once a massive architectural work with 22 spans, connecting the two banks of the river. However, after being destroyed many times by floods, the bridge only has 4 spans as it is today.

Along with the Palais des Papes, the Saint-Bénezet Bridge is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, becoming one of the most attractive destinations in France.

Rue Des Teinturiers

Rue des Teinturiers is a picturesque cobblestone street, running along the small canal of the Sorgue River from Rue des Lices to the city walls. Each ancient house with moss-covered stone walls, intricately carved wooden windows seems to tell a story of the past.

In the past, Rue des Teinturiers was the center of the textile dyeing industry in Avignon. Talented artisans created brightly colored fabrics from natural plants. The image of cloths drying in the sun, the bright colors imprinted on the cobblestones are still imprinted in the memories of many people.

You can visit handicraft shops, enjoy a cup of coffee at a small cafe on the street, or simply sit and watch the people passing by. Rue des Teinturiers will definitely leave you with beautiful memories.

“Soul-Capturing” Tourist Destinations in Grenoble, France

Not possessing the splendid beauty of Paris, the city of Grenoble brings simplicity and peace at the foot of the Alps, in the Southeast of France. “Capital of the Alps” Grenoble is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green forests between the Drac and Isère rivers, making the scenery here one of the most wonderful destinations in Europe.

Musée de Grenoble

Located in a magnificent building, the Musée de Grenoble is home to an invaluable art treasure trove. The museum’s vast collection includes works from ancient to modern times, from exquisite sculptures to oil paintings by masters such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne and Henri Matisse.

Each gallery at the Musée de Grenoble is a separate art world. You will be immersed in the space of impressive paintings, discover the mysteries of ancient sculptures, and admire the limitless creativity of contemporary artists.

Visiting the Musée de Grenoble is not only an aesthetic experience but also a journey of artistic discovery throughout the periods from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Fort de La Bastille

From the center of Grenoble, you can quickly reach La Bastille: a military fortress, built in the 19th century on the hill of the same name. Fort de la Bastille was formerly a prison; now it has become an attractive tourist destination, attracting visitors with its majestic beauty and interesting historical stories.

To get to La Bastille, you will have an extremely interesting experience when sitting on the bubble-shaped cable cars of Téléphérique de la Bastille. From above, you will admire the whole city of Grenoble with its pretty small streets, green parks, and the majestic Alps surrounding it.

Don’t forget to visit the Museum of the Resistance, learn about the history of the struggle of the Grenoble people, or explore the contemporary art exhibitions in the large exhibition space. La Bastille will definitely be a destination not to be missed in your journey to explore Grenoble.

Take the Le Petit Train de la Mure

This is an activity that promises to leave you with many memories when leaving Grenoble. Departing from La Mure, the small train will take you on a 40-minute journey through viaducts and tunnels.

During the trip, you will have the opportunity to see the emerald-green Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet reservoir and enjoy the peaceful scenery along the Drac River. Along the shore of the lake, small villages nestle under the shade of ancient trees, creating a peaceful village picture.

Le Petit Train de la Mure allows you to enjoy the cool wind blowing in your hair, listen to the chirping of birds, and admire the purple lavender fields.

Local Markets in Grenoble

Fans of vibrant markets and street food will definitely be fascinated by Grenoble. The city is a living canvas of colourful traditional markets, where you can find a wealth of local delicacies.

Imagine yourself wandering into Place aux Herbes, the oldest market in the city. It is a festival of flavours with fresh fruit, organic vegetables grown in fertile soil, delicious cheeses made from the milk of Alpine cows, and pure honey products.

For unique gifts, visit Sainte-Claire Les Halles or L’Estacade. Here you will find exquisite handicrafts, wood and leather products, and even fashionable clothes with a strong local style.

Best places to visit in France: Beautiful Places to Visit in Nîmes, France

Nestled in the foothills of southern France, between Avignon and Montpellier, Nîmes is a seemingly timeless ancient city that holds a treasure trove of ancient cultural heritage. This remarkable city was founded by the Romans, so today Nîmes has a collection of Roman ruins scattered throughout the city. In addition to its ancient spaces, Nîmes also has a vibrant atmosphere created by seasonal festivals and cultural events.

Amphitheatre of Nîmes

Arènes de Nîmes is a well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater that has become one of the symbols of the city of Nîmes. Built around 70 BC, this structure is an architectural wonder with its massive arches, tiered spectator seats, and clever drainage system.

Imagine yourself standing in the middle of the arena, surrounded by the cheers of thousands of spectators echoing throughout the space and the clanging of swords. That is the image of the fierce gladiator fights that took place here during the Roman era.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Arènes de Nîmes underwent many changes: it was a refugee camp, a fortress, and finally a bullring. To this day, the arena remains a major cultural event venue, attracting millions of visitors every year. Every brick, every trace on the ancient stone walls tells a story about the glorious history of an empire that once dominated the world.

Pont du Gard Aqueduct

Built in the 1st century, the Pont du Gard is an engineering marvel with a nearly 50km long aqueduct system, providing an abundant water source for the city of Nîme, then a colony of ancient Rome.

Pont du Gard is not only a construction serving the daily needs of the people, but also a symbol of the strength and wisdom of the Roman Empire. The bridge has witnessed many ups and downs of history, from the glorious period of the empire to the devastating wars. Since 1985, Pont du Gard has become a World Cultural Heritage, attracting millions of visitors every year.

On hot summer days, many locals come here to enjoy the cool water of the Gard River, camp under the shade of trees, bathe in the river, or kayak.

Jardins de la Fontaine

Jardins de la Fontaine is a 15-hectare public park, built in the 12th century in Nîmes. The garden is a harmonious blend of ancient Roman remains and natural landscapes and is divided into two parts: a classical garden created in the 1800s and a landscaped Mediterranean garden created in the 1900s.

Exploring the Jardins de la Fontaine is a journey of history and art. You can stroll along the paved paths, admire the fountains, and relax in the green space. The garden also hosts cultural and artistic events, adding to the liveliness of the space.

With the perfect combination of ancient Roman heritage and exquisite landscape design, the Jardins de la Fontaine is a must-see destination when visiting Nîmes.

Maison Carrée Temple

The Maison Carrée is one of the best preserved Roman temples found in the Roman Empire, and is also the only complete Roman temple in the world. Built around 5 AD, the temple is made of bright white limestone that sparkles in the sunlight. The architecture of the Maison Carrée is in the Corinthian style, with soaring columns, triangular roofs, and intricate carvings.

The temple was originally built to honor the two adopted sons of Emperor Augustus, representing the power and prosperity of the Roman Empire. However, despite its name, the “Maison Carrée” (Square House), the temple is actually rectangular in shape. To the Romans, “square house” simply meant a building with right angles.

Over thousands of years, the temple has served as a place of worship, a fortress, and finally a symbol of culture and history. Today, the Maison Carrée is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world and a popular tourist destination.

Carré d’Art Museum

Across the old Maison Carrée is the Carré d’Art, a modern glass and steel building that stands out against the blue sky. Built in 1986, the Carré d’Art is a statement of the intersection between past and present. While the Maison Carrée represents the classical beauty of Roman architecture, the Carré d’Art is a symbol of creativity and innovation in contemporary art.

Inside, the museum houses a rich collection of modern art, from paintings, sculptures to photography. Placing the Carré d’Art right next to the Maison Carrée not only creates an interesting architectural contrast, but also celebrates both the past and present of the city of Nîmes.

After visiting the museum, visitors can go up to the rooftop to enjoy a snack and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. From here, you can fully admire the beauty of both Maison Carrée and Carré d’Art, two unique architectural symbols of Nîmes.

Must-See Tourist Destinations in Lyon, France

Located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon becomes the 3rd largest city in France, attracting visitors with luxurious amenities, green spaces and historical monuments.

With a history dating back to ancient Roman times, Lyon has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. In addition, a special attraction of Lyon is the Fête des Lumières Festival of Lights held every December.

Notre Dame de Fourvière

Notre Dame de Fourvière, a symbol of Lyon, sits atop the hill of the same name, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Built in the 19th century, this massive architectural work harmoniously combines Byzantine and Romanesque styles, creating a unique masterpiece of art and architecture.

As an important pilgrimage site, the church attracts millions of visitors every year. Standing on the top of Fourvière hill, you not only have the opportunity to admire the entire unique architecture but also immerse yourself in the beautiful natural scenery of Lyon.

To reach the top of the hill, you can choose to walk, take a bus or use the cable car system. In addition to the church, Fourvière hill is also home to other cultural heritages such as the ancient Roman Theatre, another impressive architectural work of the city.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon is one of France’s leading art museums, located in the city of Lyon. Housed in a 17th-century Benedictine abbey, the museum is a must-see for art lovers.

With its vast and diverse collection, the museum takes you on a journey of art discovery from ancient Egypt to the 18th century. Here, you can admire classic French paintings and sculptures, from the Renaissance to Impressionism. In addition, the museum also owns an antiquities collection with artifacts from Greece, Rome and Egypt.

With the unique architecture of the abbey and modern exhibition space, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon promises to bring you a comprehensive art experience.

Aquarium de Lyon

The Aquarium de Lyon is a family-friendly destination that takes you on a journey through a diverse marine life. With over 300 species and 5,000 individuals, the aquarium faithfully recreates underwater ecosystems from rivers to oceans.

The highlight of the aquarium is the Fosse Aux Requins lake, where you can get up close to giant predators such as sharks and rays. In addition, you will explore themed areas such as colorful coral reefs, the mysterious Amazon River and the deep ocean with unique marine creatures.

The Aquarium de Lyon is not only a place of entertainment but also an educational facility for marine conservation. Interactive programs and informational displays provide knowledge about marine biodiversity and the importance of protecting the environment.

Théâtre Antique de Lyon

The Théâtre Antique de Lyon, also known as the Théâtre Antique de Lyon, is an ancient Roman structure that cannot be missed when visiting Lyon. With its unique circular architecture, large stage and tiered audience seats, the theater was once the vibrant cultural center of the city of Lugdunum. Today, you can explore the vestiges of its glorious past and imagine the magnificent performances that once took place here.

In the summer months, the theater comes alive with the Nuits de Fourvière festival. Every night, the audience is immersed in a diverse artistic space with musical performances, operas, ballets, and contemporary performances. From the ancient stone seats, the audience not only enjoys art but also has the opportunity to admire the panoramic view of Lyon at night, an unforgettable experience.

To fully enjoy the tour, you should come to the theater early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the harsh sunlight. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen and a camera to capture the beautiful moments. And don’t miss the opportunity to join a guided tour to better understand the history and architecture of the theater.

Parc de la Tête d’Or

Parc de la Tête d’Or is a green gem in the heart of Lyon, offering visitors a peaceful and relaxing space. Each season, the park wears a different beauty. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, creating a romantic scene. In summer, the lake becomes an ideal destination to relax and participate in activities. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow and red, creating a beautiful natural picture.

With its diverse botanical gardens, fascinating zoo, and lively children’s play area, Parc de la Tête d’Or is the perfect destination for the whole family. You can spend a whole day exploring the park, from visiting the zoo, feeding the ducks in the pond, to cycling around the park. Don’t forget to bring a rug to spread out on the grass, and enjoy a light picnic with family and friends.

People liken France to a lifelong lover: no tour can reveal all the hidden beauty of France, and after each trip, you are urged to plan your next journey.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Paris you can refer to

• Paris Museum Pass
• Paris Pass with 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Bruges Day Tour from Paris
• Paris Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Paris Open Tour Bus Pass
• Eiffel Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket
• The Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
• 4G SIM Card (Paris/Airport Pick Up) for Europe from Orange
• Disneyland® Paris Ticket
• Eiffel Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket
• [Sale] Seine River Sightseeing Cruise in Paris by Bateaux-Mouches
• Mont Saint Michel Full Day Tour from Paris
• Paris: 1-Hour River Seine Cruise
• Paris: Eiffel Tower Direct Access Tour to Summit by Elevator
• Disneyland Paris 1-Day Ticket
• Paris: 1-Hour Illuminations River Cruise
• Louvre Museum: Tour
• Paris: Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show Ticket with Champagne

Are you looking for more top things to do in Paris: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Paris travel blog — The fullest Paris travel guide blog for a great budget trip to Paris for the first-timers. And let’s check it out more here.