The Ultimate France Bucket List: 23 Epic Destinations & Experiences

Creating a France bucket list is like diving into a world of endless charm, history, and adventure. From the lavender fields of Provence to the bustling boulevards of Paris, France offers unforgettable experiences that captivate travelers at every turn. 

Whether you’re looking to savor world-renowned cuisine, explore iconic landmarks, or discover hidden gems off the beaten path, this guide brings together the ultimate must-see destinations and once-in-a-lifetime experiences across France.

Ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime? Here are the top places and activities to add to your France bucket list!

France Bucket List Destinations

Ready to start your France bucket list? First, we're going to share some of the top destinations around the country to visit.

🗼 Paris

As the capital of France, and home to one of the most iconic structures in the world, Paris needs to be on everyone's France bucket list.

From its beautiful museums to its quaint cafes there are so many places you can enjoy Paris to escape the crowds and chaos.

It's certainly one of the most photogenic cities in Europe, which is why we've also written a guide about the best photo spots in Paris to add to your France bucket list.

🏰 Versailles

Just a 45-minute train ride from Paris, Versailles is home to one of the most stunning palaces you'll ever see.

Known for intricate architecture, expansive gardens, and significant historical importance, the palace of Versailles is an UNESCO World Heritage site, and is one of the top places for any France bucket list.

🌳 Etretat

Etretat is one of the top places on our France bucket list, and was one places that truly exceeded our expectations. 

Its beautiful gardens are one of its highlights, but the scenic small town surrounded by its grand cliffs make it simply marvelous.

Whether you want to enjoy a day at the beach, roam the gardens, or watch sunset on the top of the cliffs, Etretat is surely a place that will blow you away with its beauty.

🕍 Mont Saint-Michel

The Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-see marvel! This iconic tidal island in Normandy is famous for its dramatic abbey, which seems to defy gravity as it rises atop a rocky peak, surrounded by sweeping views of sand and sea. 

Built over centuries, the abbey is an architectural wonder with medieval spires, fortified walls, and winding staircases, creating a surreal atmosphere that attracts millions of visitors each year.

Whether you’re drawn by its history, religious significance, or simply its enchanting beauty, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the country's most unforgettable sites and a true must-visit destination for travelers and photographers alike to add to their France bucket list.

🌊 The French Riviera

The French Riviera is one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe. Dotted with colorful villages and postcard-worthy beaches, the French Riviera is one of the top destinations for anyone's France bucket list.

Some of our favorite locations to check out in the area are Marseille, Villefranche-Sur-Mer, Cannes, and Saint Tropez.

Get ready to sip coffee on the quaint streets, swim in the turquoise waters, and relax at the bougie beach clubs on an incredible trip to the French Riviera.

⛪️ Dordogne

In our opinion, Dordogne is one of the most underrated destinations in the country, and the best place for your France bucket list if you like traveling a bit off the beaten path.

Full of picturesque small towns, beautiful castles, and cute cafes, it's hard not to fall in love with Dordogne.

Stay tuned, because we have a full guide for visiting Dordogne coming soon!

🎅🏻 Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming blend of French and German influences, making it one of Europe’s most unique cities. Located in the Alsace region along the Rhine River, Strasbourg is famed for its medieval architecture, timber-framed houses, and the stunning Cathedral, whose Gothic spire towers over the historic city center. 

The UNESCO-listed old town, known as Grande Île, is a maze of narrow streets, picturesque canals, and vibrant squares that feel straight out of a fairy tale. Strasbourg is especially magical during the holidays when it hosts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, filling the city with festive lights, local crafts, and delicious seasonal treats. 

Whether you're exploring Petite France’s colorful buildings or savoring Alsatian cuisine in a cozy wine tavern, Strasbourg is a must-visit for its rich history, cultural fusion, and undeniable charm.

🎄 Colmar

Colmar is like stepping into a storybook, with its pastel-colored, timber-framed houses, cobblestone streets, and charming canals winding through the town.

Located in the heart of Alsace, Colmar is famous for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, as well as its stunning blend of French and German cultural influences. The picturesque "Little Venice" quarter is especially charming, where flower-draped buildings line the waterways, creating one of the most scenic spots in France.

Known as the “Capital of Alsace Wines,” Colmar is also a destination for wine lovers, with numerous vineyards and cozy wine cellars offering local tastings. The town is even more captivating during the holiday season, with with its famous Christmas market, and the incredible holiday decor that feels like it's straight out of a fairytale. 

From its fascinating museums to its scenic squares, Colmar is a must-visit for your France bucket list with its beauty, rich history, and warm, inviting atmosphere.

🛶 Annecy

Annecy is one of our favorite cities in all of France. Located just over the border from Switzerland, it's known for its charming buildings along the various canals. 

Located right on the water and surrounded by mountains, this city is one of the most picturesque destinations to add to your France bucket list, and is particularly fun for all ages during the summer months.

🔭 Toulouse

Known as "La Ville Rose" (The Pink City), Toulouse captivates visitors with its rosy-hued buildings, lively squares, and rich blend of history and innovation. 

Located in southwestern France, Toulouse boasts a unique charm with its bustling markets, colorful terracotta architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Beyond its beautiful streets, Toulouse is a hub for the aerospace industry, home to the headquarters of Airbus and the Cité de l’Espace, an interactive space museum perfect for kids and adults alike. 

With its mix of medieval history, art, and cutting-edge technology, along with a lively dining scene offering southern French flavors, Toulouse is an excellent choice to add to your France bucket list.

🍴 Lyon

Lyon is a captivating blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it one of France’s most irresistible cities. Located at the meeting of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is filled with Renaissance architecture, narrow passageways, and lively squares perfect for wandering.

Lyon is one of the biggest cities in France, and is known as the culinary capital of the country. With its massive food market and cozy bouchons, this city is definitely one for the foodies out there.

With its world-class museums, scenic riverbanks, and energetic cultural scene, Lyon is a must-visit destination for history buffs, food lovers, and art enthusiasts alike.

🍷 Bordeaux

Known as the "Wine Capital of the World," Bordeaux is a city brimming with elegance and charm, set along the scenic Garonne River in southwestern France.

Famous for its vineyards and world-class wines, Bordeaux offers visitors the chance to explore picturesque wine estates and indulge in tastings of some of the finest wines in the world.

The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with stunning 18th-century architecture, grand squares, and the beautiful Place de la Bourse, where the famous Water Mirror reflects the grandeur of the buildings across the boulevard.

Whether you’re savoring local cuisine, strolling through its lush parks, or admiring the elegant façades, Bordeaux is a sophisticated destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty.

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France Bucket List Experiences

Now that you know all of the incredible destinations to add to your France bucket list, let's check out some fun activities you can experience throughout the country!

✨ Experience the Eiffel Tower Lighting

The Eiffel tower is at the top of anyone's France bucket list. But one thing you won't want to miss out on is the nightly event of witnessing the tower all lit up.

This happens after sunset until 1 AM. However, the best part is when the Eiffel Tower sparkles for the first five minutes over every hour on the hour.

🎆 Celebrate Bastille Day

Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14th, is France’s national holiday, commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris in 1789, a pivotal event in the French Revolution. This historic day marks the unity of the French people in their fight for liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Bastille Day is celebrated with patriotic fervor across France, featuring grand parades, most notably the military procession on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The day is also marked by fireworks, public dances, parties, and concerts, making it one of the top celebrations in the country to add to your France bucket list.

🎈 Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Loire Valley

One o four top France bucket list experiences is to enjoy a hot air balloon over the Loire Valley. Soar over beautiful chateaux and vineyards for unforgettable views of the French countryside, for one of the most unique and beautiful things to do in France.

🍷 Go Wine Tasting in Bordeaux or Burgundy

France is known for having some of the best wine in the world, so no trip would be complete without diving into France’s wine culture. Head to Bordeaux or Burgundy and don't miss out on experiencing tastings at some of the most world-renowned wineries.

👩‍🍳 Take a Cooking Class in Provence

France is known for its cuisine, and what better way to experience the flavors of France than through learning how to cook? 

Head to Provence and learn how to make classic French dishes using fresh, local ingredients with the guidance of a French chef. This way you can impress your friends and family back home, and have an unforgettable memory while visiting the south of France.

🎄 Experience the Magic of the Christmas Markets

There are so many incredible places to travel in December, but there is truly nothing like experiencing the Christmas markets in Europe.

France has some amazing Christmas markets in France, with two of the most popular ones being Strasbourg and Colmar, near the border of Germany.

Get in the festive spirit in these charming cities, and make sure to visiting the Christmas markets to your France bucket list.

👯‍♀️ Attend a Cabaret Show at Moulin Rouge in Paris

Enjoy the lively, colorful performances in the famous Parisian setting, with one of the most iconic shows of all time. The Moulin Rouge in Paris is definitely one for your France bucket list that you won't want to miss out on.

🚤 Rent a Boat at the Verdon Gorge

Paddle through stunning turquoise waters in one of Europe’s most beautiful river canyons. The Verdon Gorge is one of the most gorgeous places in the country, and you can enjoy sailing through via kayak, pedal boat, or motor boat to experience this incredible and iconic landscape in the south of France.

🌾 Explore the Lavender Fields of Provence 

This is on the very top of our France bucket list, but is only available for select dates. Head to the south of France from the end of June through mid July to see endless purple fields in full bloom. Perfect for photos and picnics, this is definitely one of the most romantic places to visit in the world.

🥾 Go Hiking in the Pyranees

Hiking in the Pyrenees offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe, with rugged peaks, lush valleys, and picturesque mountain villages. 

Stretching along the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a wide range of trails for all levels of hikers. Whether you're tackling challenging summit routes, like the ascent of Pic du Midi d'Ossau, or enjoying more leisurely hikes through tranquil meadows and pristine lakes, the Pyrenees offer breathtaking views at every turn.

The region is also home to diverse flora and fauna, and many trails pass through charming villages, where you can experience the local culture and cuisine. From the high-altitude paths of the central Pyrenees to the lush greenery of the foothills, hiking in the Pyrenees is a perfect way to connect with nature and discover the heart of this beautiful mountain range.

⛷ Go Skiing in the French Alps

Skiing in France is a dream come true for winter sports enthusiasts, offering some of the best slopes in the world. The French Alps, with their stunning peaks and extensive ski resorts, provide a vast playground for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. 

From the glamorous resorts of Chamonix and Courchevel to the family-friendly slopes of Les Deux Alpes, France boasts a wide range of destinations catering to every need.

France also offers a charming après-ski culture, with cozy mountain chalets serving hearty cuisine and warm drinks. Whether you're gliding down powdery slopes, enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, or relaxing in a hot tub after a day on the mountain, skiing is definitely something to add to your France bucket list.

🏄🏻‍♀️ Try Surfing in Biarritz  

While France isn't typically where you would think of surfing, we have a great French destination for the surfers out there.

Biarritz, a coastal gem on the Basque Country’s Atlantic coast, is renowned for its world-class surfing conditions. With its consistent waves and beautiful sandy beaches, Biarritz has been a surfing hotspot since the 1950s, attracting surfers from all over the world.

The city offers a mix of surf spots suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, from the gentle breaks at Grande Plage to the more challenging waves at La Côte des Basques.

Aside from surfing itself, Biarritz boasts a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere with surf shops, beachfront cafes, and lively festivals, making it the perfect place for both surfers and beach lovers alike. Whether you're catching waves or simply soaking in the coastal charm, Biarritz is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure by the sea.

🧂 Explore Pink Waters

Have you ever heard of pink lakes? We've actually seen quite a few now in Senegal, Spain, Mexico, and Namibia. But did you know France is also home to some pink lakes?

It's actually a salt mine, and you can get a ticket to walk around, bike, or take a small train to explore the massive area of Salin d’Aigues-Mortes. 

We'd recommend giving yourself a couple of hours to really experience the entire place, and you can also hire a guide to find the best spots.

So are you ready to starting ticking off some of these items for your France bucket list? This country is full of charming villages, beautiful landscapes, and fun activities for a variety of travelers.

Want to explore other surrounding countries? Well, we have plenty of other great Europe travel guides coming up, so make sure to subscribe to our newsletter. 

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