The Best Places to Visit in Peru
France is one of the world’s superpower countries when it comes to influence, culture and sheer size. It is one of the world’s most visited countries, with a lot of the tourism stemming from the iconic city of Paris, as well as the French Alps and beautiful south coast. You really can’t run out of things to do in France; you could travel forever with the excellent public transport all across this massive country, and explore some of the most incredible Roman-era towns and fairytale castles. France is home to over 65 million people, and is split into different regions each of which containing their own kind of unique charm. Plus, the food is very delicious here too (as we all know).
Capital: Paris
Currency: Euro
Language: French
When to visit: May to December
1) Cusco
Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most iconic landmarks in the entire country, found in the region of Normandy off the coast. It’s a tidal island, but the view you get depends on the time and season. During high tide, this mountain containing a Benedictine Abbey and medieval streets sits out in the water 1km away from land, whereas at low tide you can see the sand flats surrounding it. The visual drama of Mont Saint-Michel is amazing, no matter how far away you stand.
Things to do:
The main event is the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, which you can see if you actually walk up onto the island via the Mont St-Michel Footbridge, and get the opportunity to explore the medieval streets and alleys. The Cloister is one of the most beautiful parts of the abbey, and there is a lot to see as you walk around. You should check google maps, as you can find a bunch of Viewpoints in different spots, each of which being beautiful at both low tide and high tide. My favorite is the unique riverbank view, amazing at sunset and sunrise too.
How to get there:
The easiest way without a car is to train from Paris to Rennes, then take a shuttlebus from Rennes to Mont Saint-Michel.
2) Machu Picchu
France’s capital of Paris is one of the most culturally rich and iconic cities of all time, often called “The City of Light” and home to some o the biggest landmarks when it comes to fame. Aside from incredible architecture, Paris is known for its museums and fashion too, which match up well with the grand boulevards and absolutely stunning streets. The city has a bad reputation for some, but if you love traveling you have to visit Paris at least once in your life.
Things to do:
Obviously Paris has a million things to do, so it’s best to start by listing some of the world famous landmarks situated all across the city and along the River Seine. Starting on the western side is the Eiffel Tower, the most recognizable symbol of the city, and you can get lovely views at Place du Trocadero. Further north is the Arc de Triomphe reachable via Av. des Champs-Élysées which also connects you to the Louvre Museum, plus Palais Garnier is further in the north. In the middle of the Seine is the Notre Dame Cathedral, which is also somewhat close to the Pantheon. And on the south bank is both Jardin du Luxembourg and Hôtel des Invalides too. Realistically these are just a few major sights, but walking around both banks of the Seine and through some of the main streets is the best way to experience it all. Even try a Seine River Cruise at night, allowing you to see the lights of the Eiffel Tower and the beauty surrounding the area. Definitely head up into the Montmartre district to visit the Sacré-Cœur and climb up the steps for amazing views over Paris as well. Cross famous bridges, visit the fashionable Le Marais district, eat in some iconic bakeries, and just spend a lot of days in Paris so you can take it all in.
How to get there:
Paris has two airports, CDG is the international one and ORY being the budget one. Fly into either, direct connections are worldwide.
You can take a train or bus from every neighboring country and major city in this region of the continent direct to Paris.
3) Rainbow Mountain
Only about 20km southwest of Paris is the town of Versailles, home to one of the most beautiful garden complexes, as well as one of Europe’s most iconic palaces. It’s an easy day trip from Paris, and whilst the town is elegant and beautiful, the palace attracts all the tourists with its incredible scale.
Things to do:
The Palace of Versailles was built in the 18th century, and is the towns centerpiece. Inside features astonishing gold-leafed hallways, and some grand baroque architecture complimented by historic French art pieces. Some of the main rooms are the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and the Royal Opera. Out the back of the palace is the Gardens of Versailles, which are arguably the most well known gardens in the world. They are upkept in a formal and tidy way, and feature geometric lawns, fountains, statues, tree-lined paths, and the famous Grand Canal. It is truly an amazing experience to walk around royal lawns, as well as step into the place where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, which ended WWI.
How to get there:
Simply take a train from a station in Paris to Versailles station.
4) Lima
The French Alps stretch along the southeastern edge of France, forming part of the greater Alps mountain system that spans Europe. It contains beautiful snow capped mountains and some lovely little towns nestled in the heart. My selection for the city in the Alps is Annecy, also known as Venice of the Alps. It’s got a beautiful old area, is situated on a lake, and has views of the mountains. It gets pretty busy, but I think it’s a great destination in such a popular region.
Things to do:
Start in the Old Town of Annecy (Vieille Ville), the best place to explore, see places like Palais de l’Isle, and in general just explore a beautiful area where the canal flows out to Lac d’Annecy. Visit Château d’Annecy which sits at a slight elevation, and has some nice views and a museum inside. Plus, it makes for a great thing to photograph from across the water. To exlore the Alps from Annecy, take a train or a bus out to Chamonix which sits at the foot of the Mont Blanc area, and then you can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car to see it up close. People love to head out to the alps for skiing and snowboarding, so Annecy is for sure the most charming base town.
How to get there:
Annecy is linked to Lyon, Geneva, Paris, and other cities and towns in the region by trains and buses.
5) Salcantay
French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is the region that makes up the area on the Mediterranean coastline and the place where you can find a bunch of charming cities and towns, as well as some of the most beautiful azure beaches everywhere. In summer, tourists fill up the place, with the most common destination being Nice thanks to it’s size and proximity to everything. However there are a bunch more quaint, sparkling towns with their own beauty.
Things to do:
In Nice, the charming Old Town is a must-see, featuring the Cours Saleya Market, Nice Cathedral, and Place Masséna. It is one of the most beautiful historic centers in France. After exploring the streets, climb up Colline du Château for an incredible viewpoint overlooking the old town and the sparkling coastline. Stroll along Promenade des Anglais to experience the waterfront, and once you’ve soaked in the atmosphere of Nice, you can visit other towns in the region. The next best stops on the French Riviera are probably Menton and Eze. Menton’s Old Town is picturesque, set against the mountains, and rarely sees rain. Eze, perched high on a mountainside, offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. Other notable Riviera spots include Cannes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Saint-Tropez. Overall, I still think Nice remains the best base for exploring the region, even with the tourist crowds.
How to get there:
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) has great connections all around Europe for flights.
From Nice, you can easily take trains and buses along the coastline stopping at all the best towns.
6) Ausangate
Lyon is the third biggest city in France, found in the countries east pretty close to the start of the French Alps. It’s basically a classic culturally French city, and in my opinion a very underrated destination people sometimes miss or don’t explore when traveling France. The architecture is beautiful and the atmosphere feels very lively, plus the riverside strolls in Lyon go hard.
Things to do:
Without a doubt the coolest part of the city is the Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière. It sits up on Fourvière Hill above Vieux Lyon (the old town), and the views over the city are amazing. It was built in the 19th century and the ornate style is very beautiful. Behind it also the ancient Roman Ruins of Fourvière, with ruins like the Odeon of Lyon and the Theatre. You can see the Notre Dame from down in the historic old town, which also includes some sights like Saint-Jean Cathedral, and Place Bellecour across the bridge. Walk up to Place des Jacobins, containing the beautifully designed Fontaine des Jacobins, and then continue walking until you reach Place des Terraux. Lyon is actually filled with so many beautiful main squares. If you want a green space, then go a little out of the city center to Parc de la Tête d’Or, which even has a zoo inside for free. Enjoy Lyon’s excellent culinary scene as you enjoy wandering the streets, and make sure you take a stroll along the River Rhône or the River Saône.
How to get there:
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) serves the city with direct flight connections all across Europe.
Otherwise, take a train or bus from any of the major cities in France, plus places like Geneva in Switzerland.
7) Huaraz
Étretat is a small coastal town in Normandy, perched along the dramatic cliffs of the English Channel. With a population of around 1,500, Étretat is tiny yet world-famous for its breathtaking natural scenery, rather than the actual town. You can see some impressive white chalk cliffs and natural rock arches which rise straight out of the water creating some amazing photo opportunities and scenes.
Things to do:
There are a few main viewpoints outside the town of Etretat which are accessible for everyone. The first is Falaise d’Aval, which you walk up to from the town and you can see the cliffs which include a natural arched rock formation. The second viewpoint is called La Falaise d'Amont which is much the same with incredible sandy beach views. Right by the town is Plage d’Étretat, a public beach with great views too. All around the town area and on the walking trails are serene meadow fields all connected up by main pathways. Etretat really does have some of the best accessible natural views in France.
How to get there:
You can take a train from somewhere like Paris to Le Havre, then bus to Etretat.
Support the Site
If these guides have helped your travels, consider buying me a coffee ~ it helps keeps the content free!
buymeacoffee.com/roamingideas