France Attractions - the Top 10 Popular Spots

Paris, the capital of the country, the city of love and lights, is the epitome of the most popular sights in France.

The Eiffel Tower

The city's landmark is, of course, the famous Eiffel Tower. The tower, which stands 324 meters tall, offers impressive views of the city and the Seine from its three observation decks.

Other top attractions in Paris:

For more information about individual Paris attractions, check out our article 'Paris Attractions - Top 10 Popular Spots'. This will prepare you perfectly for your city trip to Paris.

With nearly 15 million visitors per year, Disneyland Paris is one of the top travel destinations in France.

Our second place is, of course, closely tied to the first. Disneyland Paris, near the million metropolis, is a great fun for young and old.

A magical fairy tale world

In 2017, the amusement park celebrated its 25th anniversary with Minnie, Mickey, and Goofy. To explore all the attractions, you should plan at least one day.

Meet your favorite Disney characters during this fantastic family adventure and spend a magical day at Disneyland Paris.

Impressive, splendid, extremely imposing. This is the Palace of Versailles.

The gardens of Versailles

The former main residence of the Sun King Louis XIV is now one of the largest parks in Europe. In the beautiful palace gardens, you can admire a whopping 75,000 trees, vases, statues, and fountains.

The Hall of Mirrors

The absolute highlight of the palace is the Hall of Mirrors. In the 70-meter-long 'Galerie des Glaces', there are an incredible 357 mirrors - a must-see! By the way, since 1979, the Palace of Versailles has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

The magnificent cathedral of Strasbourg was once the tallest building in the world. To this day, it is a true sight to behold.

The Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg is the landmark of the entire Alsace region and definitely one of the most popular attractions in France. It celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 2015.

Astronomical Clock of Notre Dame

In addition to many beautiful stained glass windows and tapestries, the highlight of the Strasbourg Cathedral is the astronomical clock located in the southern transept. It is very precise and strikes at 12:30 sharp, as it is set to the Strasbourg meridian.

Did you know? The angel pillar in front of the clock also stabilizes the vault of the southern transept. It was created between 1220 and 1230.

What a phenomenal structure! An abbey sits atop the rock of Mont Saint-Michel, considered one of the most expensive and challenging constructions of the Middle Ages.

Construction was only completed after 500 years. In addition to its fascinating architecture, the location is absolutely unique.

Island at times

For nearly the entire year, you can reach the abbey on foot over the wetlands. Only about 40 days a year is the abbey completely surrounded by floodwaters. From a distance, it is an incredibly beautiful natural spectacle when the rock suddenly becomes an island.

Turquoise waters, long beaches, and unmistakable seagulls in old harbors. Welcome to the enchanting Côte d'Azur!

Directly along the beautiful Mediterranean coast, the Côte d'Azur stretches for 120 kilometers. Immerse yourself in Mediterranean flair, stroll leisurely along colorful beach promenades, or sunbathe in secluded coves with crystal-clear water.

Tip: Every year, many celebrities walk the red carpet in Cannes on the Côte d'Azur. It's that time for the International Film Festival, one of the most significant film festivals in the world. The southern French port city of Cannes is then all about the red carpet and flashes of camera lights.

Out of the city, into nature. This is particularly easy in Normandy.

Hiking trails high above sea level

The Falaises d'Étretat is a cliff with beautiful rock formations and excellent hiking trails. The white chalk cliffs rise up to 75 meters out of the sea. From the hiking trails, you have excellent views of the vast water and the naturally shaped limestone arches.

No wonder this is a top travel destination in France.

No trip to France would be complete without it. The Palace of the Popes in Avignon.

One of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe

Avignon is among the most interesting places in France and offers the Pope's Palace, a magnificent building. From the outside, the palace looks more like a fortress, but once you enter, you quickly feel like you are in a splendid castle.

Explore the rooms and private chambers of the Pope, who had his residence here for almost 100 years, and enjoy wonderful views of Avignon and the Rhône from the terraces of the Palace of the Popes.

Opening hours: daily September 1 - November 1: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | November 2 - February 29: 9:30 AM - 5:45 PM | March: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM | April 1 - June 30: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | July: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM | August: 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM

Did you know? The Palace of the Popes also features another landmark and monument, the Pont Saint-Bénézet. In the ruins of the 12th-century arch bridge, the shepherd Bénézet is buried, who, according to legend, was commanded by a heavenly voice to build the bridge.

France is not only known for its remarkable cities but also for its historic châteaux.

In the Valley of the Châteaux

The Loire flows approximately 1,000 kilometers through France, making it the country's longest river. The best way to extensively explore the Loire Valley is by bike. Cycle along idyllic lake landscapes, past picturesque châteaux, and recharge in the wonderful nature.

There are around 400 château complexes throughout the Loire Valley. Culturally and historically, the most interesting section can be found between Orléans and Nantes.

Châteaux in the Loire Valley

Did you know? Every two years, the popular 'Festival de Loire' takes place. Participating cities celebrate together, light colorful fireworks, and offer culinary delights.

The Dome Cathedral

The Cathédrale de la Major is one of the largest cathedrals built after the Middle Ages. Located in the old town of Marseille, it impresses primarily with its stunning domes.

Did you know? After its completion in 1896, the Cathedral of Marseille was bestowed the title of a Basilica Minor. This title is granted by the Pope to significant church buildings to indicate special proximity to the Roman Bishop.

With our top 10 favorite attractions in France, it quickly becomes clear what a variety the country offers. In addition to the glamorous capital Paris, there are numerous romantic regions and also small, tranquil places.

France is not lacking in diversity. Mediterranean joie de vivre, southern charm, picturesque ports, fresh fish, and a wealth of history and culture - we wish you much enjoyment on your next trip to France!