Choose from 490 Fun Things to Do in France
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Lourmarin Castle
Chateau de Lourmarin is a castle in the town of Lourmarin in southern France. It was originally built as a fortress in the 12th and 13th centuries, though little remains of this structure. What visitors can see today is the castle that was converted in the 15th century. There is also a Renaissance wing that was built in the 16th century. This section of the castle is completely furnished and has a collection of fine art as well as furniture, engravings, paintings, musical instruments, and other antiques from the 16th through 19th centuries.
Visitors can also explore various rooms of the castle and admire the exceptional architecture. The older section of the castle was built in an Italian style, giving it an air of elegance. The castle also serves as a cultural center. Painters, sculptors, and musicians are hosted here during the summer months, and summer concerts and theater shows are performed on the castle terraces. The castle also has activities for children, such as scavenger hunts and games.
Practical Info
Lourmarin Castle is located 23 miles from Aix-en-Provence and can be reached using route D13. Opening hours are 10am to 6:30pm June through August; 10am to 12:30pm and 2:30pm to 6pm May and September; 10:30am to 12:30pm and 2pm to 5pm March, April, and October; 10:30am to 12:30pm and 2:30pm to 4:30pm February, November, and December; 2:30pm to 4:30pm on Saturdays and Sundays in January. Admission is 6.50 euros.
Address: Lourmarin, France
Hours: Vary by season
Admission: 6.50 euros
From $ 81
Lido de Paris
With a history dating back to the 1940s and a prime location on the glittering Champs-Elysees, Lido de Paris is one of Paris’ most famous and celebrated cabarets. The legendary show is a feast for the senses, with mesmerizing choreography, dazzling costumes, a medley of foot-stomping show tunes, the famous Bluebell Girls—and, in true French fashion, Champagne.
The Basics
Lido de Paris guests can expect to be truly wowed. Advance booking is essential, as tickets can sell out weeks in advance, especially during busy periods. Two 90-minute shows are performed each evening, with lunch and matinee shows held on select days. You can choose to enjoy a pre-show dinner and/or Champagne, opt for a private hotel transfer, or combine the show with a guided night tour of the City of Light.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a smart-casual dress code—shorts, sportswear, flip-flops, and sneakers are not permitted.
- A coat check is available and is free for guests.
- Taking photos or videos is not permitted during the show.
- Lido de Paris is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Lido de Paris, on the Champs-Elysees in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, is a five-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. The closest metro stop is George V, and the nearest RER A train station is Charles de Gaulle–Etoile.
When to Get There
Lido de Paris has performances every day of the year. For last-minute tickets and deals, it’s best to visit in low season (November to March) or opt for a weekday show. The hottest tickets of the year are the special Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve shows, accompanied by a six-course gourmet dinner and plenty of Champagne.
The Magic of “Paris Merveilles”
Over the years, stars such as Elton John, Elvis Presley, Edith Piaf, and Shirley Maclaine have performed at the iconic Lido de Paris cabaret, while in-house entertainers include the famous Bluebell Girls, the Lido Boys, and the Lido Orchestra. Franco Dragone’s “Paris Merveilles” show, a 90-minute extravaganza devoted to the wonders of Paris, features spectacular sets that include an ice rink, a gigantic chandelier, and water fountains, plus unforgettable acts with burlesque dancers, acrobats, magicians, and mimes.
Address: 116 Bis Avenue Champs Elysées, Paris 75008, France
Hours: Shows at 1pm, 3pm, 7pm, 9pm and 11pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 98
Lyon Museum of Fine Arts (Mus ee des Beaux Arts de Lyon)
Lyon's elegant Museum of Fine Art (Musee des Beaux Arts) is housed in a 17th-century palace that was designed for the Royal Abbess of the Dames de Saint Pierre and later remodeled to outrageous heights by Louis XIV.displays one of the finest collections in all France.
More than 70 rooms display one of the finest art collections in all of France, including an outsanding array of antiquities and artwork, more than 600 Ancient Egyptian pieces, rare Asian ceramics and the second-largest numismatic collection in the country. Thirty-five rooms are dedicated to European paintings, from classic artists such as El Greco and Rembrandt to more modern masters such as Picasso and Renoir.
More than 70 rooms display one of the finest art collections in all of France, including an outsanding array of antiquities and artwork, more than 600 Ancient Egyptian pieces, rare Asian ceramics and the second-largest numismatic collection in the country. Thirty-five rooms are dedicated to European paintings, from classic artists such as El Greco and Rembrandt to more modern masters such as Picasso and Renoir.
The museum also offers temporary exhibitions, as well as activities and events for adults and children. The shady sculpture garden is often softly lit for visitors on special summer evenings.
Practical Info
The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., although it opens at 10:30 a.m. on Friday. The library and documentation center are open to all. Entry to the museum collections costs 7 euros, while admission to the exhibitions is 9 euros for adults. Combination tickets cost 12 euros. Located centrally at 20 place des Terreaux, Lyon’s Museum of Fine Arts is accessible via metro line A or C, which can be taken to the Hôtel de Ville–Louis Pradel stop. English tours are available once a month, and audio guides are available for free with entrance.
Address: 20 Place des Terreaux, Lyon, France
Hours: Wednesday-Monday 10am-6pm (10:30am on Fridays)
Admission: 7-9 Euro
From $ 29
Lille Old Town (Vieux Lille)
It's in Vieux Lille, the Old Town of the city, that the Flemish dash to Lille's character can be most clearly seen. The red brick buildings and narrow cobbled lanes have a distinct Belgian feel.
The quarter had fallen into disrepair, but now it's been cleaned up and houses the regular Euro-old town collection of bars, boutiques, and restaurants.
This is where many of the city's premier sites are located: the town museum located in the 13th-century Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse, the Cathedrale Notre Dame de la Treille, and the birthplace of Charles de Gaulle. But sightseeing aside, this is a trés pleasant place to lose yourself on a sunny day, stopping only to test out another restaurant or ogle some designer fashion.
Practical Info
Lille Old Town is centred around rue d'Angleterre, place du Lion-d'Or and rue de la Monnaie.
Address: Lille, France
From $ 16
Lub eron
Located in the heart of Provence, France’s mountainous Lubéron region is famous for its vibrant purple lavender fields, forested valleys, and ancient hilltop villages such as Saignon, Bonnieux, and Gordes. Walking trails wind through the largely uninhabited region, past hills, woodlands, and fields dusted with wildflowers.
The Basics
You can explore Lubéron on a day trip from Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, or Marseille. The region’s hilltop villages—especially Roussillon and Gordes—are usually a tour highlight, and some excursions visit up to six villages in a single day. Day trips to Lubéron typically include a guided walking tour of each town and free time to explore, while some tours also visit nearby Provencal wineries. During the summer lavender season, Lubéron is a hotspot for flower-themed excursions, which visit impressive purple-coated locations such as the Senanque Abbey, the foothills of Mont Ventoux, and the Sault Plateau. For a personalized experience and more free time for photos, opt for a small-group or private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lubéron is a must-see for nature and culture lovers.
- Wear comfortable shoes—many villages have steep hills and cobblestone lanes.
- Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as summer temperatures in Provence can reach over 86°F (30°C).
- The medieval villages and steep hills of Provence can be a challenge for wheelchair users; if needed, it’s a good idea to visit as part of a wheelchair-accessible tour.
How to Get There
The Lubéron region is located roughly 90 minutes by road from both Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, and two hours by road from Marseille. Public transportation is limited in the area, so it’s a good idea to rent a car or visit on a guided tour.
When to Get There
Summer (June through August) is the most popular time to visit, when the lavender fields are in bloom and Lubéron’s tiny villages are typically very crowded. During this time, many of the villages host lavender festivals and markets. Opt for an early morning or late evening visit to avoid crowds, or visit during winter, spring, or fall.
The Villages of Lubéron
Lubéron’s villages each have their own character and many are situated on hillsides, offering panoramic views of the Provencal countryside. The hilltop village of Gordes is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful spots in France, while Roussillon is known for its dramatic ochre cliffs. The village of Lourmarin is renowned for its Renaissance castle, and Castellet is home to one of the region’s oldest lavender distilleries.
The villages have other claims to fame as well: picturesque Bonnieux was the setting for Ridley Scott’s film A Good Year, while Lourmarin counts Albert Camus and Winston Churchill among its former residents. Gordes was a favorite of famous painter Marc Chagall, and the whole region featured in Peter Mayle’s bestselling novel A Year in Provence.
Address: Parc Naturel regional du Luberon, Merindol 84360, France
From $ 81
Lisieux Cathedral
With its grand Gothic façade overlooking the central Place François Mitterrand, it’s impossible to miss the Lisieux Cathedral, or Cathedral Saint-Pierre. Built on the site of a former Roman church, the cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is one of the earliest examples of Gothic design in France, now preserved as a National Monument.
Along with its notable architecture, Lisieux Cathedral is also famous as the resting place of Bishop Cauchon, who famously oversaw the prosecution of Joan of Arc.
Practical Info
Lisieux Cathedral is located on Place François Mitterrand in central Lisieux and is open daily from 8:30am to 7pm.
Address: Place François Mitterrand, Lisieux 14102, France
Hours: Daily 8:30am-7pm
From $ 753
Louvre
Primarily associated with the steady gaze of Leonardo Da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa, Paris' Louvre museum is home to a 35,000-strong collection of paintings and sculptures considered one of the greatest in the world. The contemporary glass Louvre Pyramid heralds the museum's entrance, which millions of tourists flock to every year to feast their eyes on masterpieces that span from antiquity to the 20th century.
The Basics
How to Get to the Louvre
Located next to the Seine River in central Paris, the Louvre is easy to find. Catch Metro line 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal/Musee du Louvre station.
The Basics
Highlights of the antiquity section include the Seated Scribe, the Jewels of Rameses II, and the armless Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo. From the Renaissance, don't miss Michelangelo's Slaves sculpture or the famous works by Raphael, Botticelli, and Titian. French masterpieces from the 19th century include Ingres' La Grande Odalisque, Gericault's The Raft of the Medusa, and the work of David and Delacroix.
The large crowds attracted by the Louvre are evidence of the museum's global fame—book a skip-the-line ticket to avoid long lines and save precious sightseeing time. And whether you're a lifelong art fan or a creative novice, exploring the museum with a tour guide is an excellent way to ensure you see all of its highlights and hidden gems. Take a tailored private tour if your interests lie in a particular area, or opt for the skip-the-line and audio guide package if you prefer browsing independently. If you're short on time, choose a sightseeing tour that combines a visit to the Louvre with stops at the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and Notre Dame Cathedral, or take in city sights from the water on a Seine River cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Louvre always has big crowds—book skip-the-line entry to save time.
- Photography of certain major works inside the Louvre is prohibited.
- A Paris museum pass (valid for your choice of two, four, or six consecutive days) includes skip-the-line access at the Louvre and Musee d'Orsay, while also covering entry to other top attractions such as the Arc de Triomphe and Napoleon's Tomb.
- Family-friendly Louvre tours tailored to entertain children are available.
Located next to the Seine River in central Paris, the Louvre is easy to find. Catch Metro line 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal/Musee du Louvre station.
When to Get There
On Friday evenings, the Louvre stays open until 9:45pm, making it a great time to enjoy the museum with fewer crowds. You'll also see the pyramid majestically illuminated. From October through March, access to the Louvre's permanent collection is free for all visitors on the first Sunday of every month.
Address: Place du Louvre, Paris 75058, France
Hours: Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 9am–6 pm; Wednesday, Friday: 9am–9:45pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Les Saintes Maries de la Mer
Surrounded by golden beaches in the spot where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea sits the whitewashed town of Saintes Maries de la Mer. As the capital of the Camargue region in the south of France, Saintes-Maries is a popular summertime destination made famous by the imposing Church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer. Built as both fortress and refuge between the ninth and 12th century, its grand Romanesque steeple can be seen from miles away.
A 20th-century literary and artistic haven beloved by the likes of Hemingway and Picasso, Saintes-Maries has seen everyone from the Romans to the Vikings, Van Gogh to Bob Dylan. Today its narrow, winding streets and lively French restaurants bustle with summertime action.
Saintes-Maries is also a popular visit among pilgrims. Why? It’s all in the name. French for “Saint Maries of the Sea,” this is said to be where the Virgin Mary’s sister, Marie-Jacobe, and John the Baptist’s mother, Marie-Salone, washed up with their servant Sarah when they all fled from the Holy Land in a rudderless boat. In celebration, every May there is a lively Roma procession dedicated to Sarah, patron saint of the gypsies, and in October the two Maries get their own parade.
Practical Info
To get to Saintes-Marie you can take the 30-minute bus ride from Arles, 24 miles (38 km) north.
Address: Les Saintes Maries de la Mer, France
From $ 81
Le Suquet
Le Suquet is the old quarter of Cannes perched on a hill overlooking the radiant French Riviera. The hill became the property of the Iles de Lerins monks in the 11th century, and a castle constructed by them in 1088 still exists today. It is a popular area for people to climb the winding cobbled roads and enjoy the local cafes, restaurants, and shops, located mostly on Rue St Antoine. The atmosphere is more casual and medieval than the glamorous heart of Cannes.
A clock tower and church are situated in Le Suquet, overlooking the peninsula and Cannes itself. At the base of Le Suquet on Rue Dr. P. Gayagnaire is the charming Marche Forville, where a market takes place in the mornings and early afternoon.
A clock tower and church are situated in Le Suquet, overlooking the peninsula and Cannes itself. At the base of Le Suquet on Rue Dr. P. Gayagnaire is the charming Marche Forville, where a market takes place in the mornings and early afternoon.
Practical Info:
The charming old town of Cannes, Le Suquet is a quick 15 minute walk from the port. The windy cobblestoned streets lead up to the hilltop where a stunning view of the coast and La Croisette is not to be missed.
Address: Cannes 06400, France
From $ 103
Les Abattoirs Museum
A former slaughterhouse has been given a much more positive lease on life at the Les Abattoirs Museum, now a contemporary art showcase for Toulouse and the Midi-Pyrénées region. The Modern Capital collection centers on the World War II period and the 1950s.
The museum’s permanent collection includes a wall-sized work by Picasso, while its various exhibition spaces display contemporary artworks that promise to confront, challenge and inspire. This imaginatively restored space also hosts a wide range of cultural expositions.
Practical Info
The Les Abattoirs Museum is on the right bank of the River Garonne, near the Pont des Catalans bridge. The closest metro stop is St Cyprien Republique.
Address: 76 Allée Charles de Fitte, Toulouse 31300, France
Hours: Wed-Sun 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Admission: €7
From $ 16
Les Halles
Affectionately known as “the belly of Paris,” Les Halles was once the sight of Paris’s bustling central food market, where vendors sold fresh meats, fish, and vegetables. A focal point of Paris since the 11th century, the food stalls were dismantled in 1971 to make room for the new Forum des Halles shopping center and metro station.
The Basics
With an abundance of cafés, restaurants, specialty food shops, and kitchen supply stores, Les Halles remains a destination for food lovers. Take a guided food tour of Les Halles and immerse yourself in French food and wine culture. Stroll through the vibrant pedestrian area of Rue Montorgueil and discover some of Paris’ best patisseries and boulangeries. The Les Halles neighborhood is also home to the Centre Pompidou, which houses the Musée National d’Art Moderne.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Les Halles is located in the 2nd arrondissement, walking distance from the Louvre.
- Les Halles is a must-see for foodies and wine enthusiasts.
- Rue Montorgueil is pedestrian-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
- The Centre Pompidou is a must-see for any first time visitors to Paris.
How to Get There
Les Halles is located in in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement, within walking distance of the Louvre. Les Halles is easily reached via public transportation from nearly anywhere in the city. The Châtelet-Les Halles station serves several regional city and metro lines, and is considered the biggest underground station in the world.
When to Get There
Les Halles is a lively destination at all hours of the day. During the summer months, start your day early to avoid large crowds. Les Halles is known for some of the best jazz bars and nightclubs in the city making it a great place to explore in the evening as well.
Visiting the Centre Pompidou
Located between the Les Halles neighborhood and the Marais, the Centre Pompidou’s fascinating industrial facade is a work of modern art in itself. The center is home to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, which houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of modern art, including pieces by Picasso, Matisse, Léger, and others. Centre Pompidou is a popular sight, so book tickets and tours in advance to save time in lines.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 45
Left Bank (Rive Gauche)
The Seine separates Paris into two halves: to the north is the Right Bank, and to the south is the Left Bank. Also known as the Rive Gauche, the Left Bank is home to some of the city’s top landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower. Thanks to its universities and famous former residents, the Rive Gauche retains a romantic, literary reputation.
The Basics
From world-famous monuments to world-renowned universities, the Left Bank encompasses a variety of neighborhoods, communities, and Parisian attractions. Among its highlights are the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, Invalides, the Jardin du Luxembourg, and the Catacombs of Paris, though that represents just a fraction of what the area offers. Broadly, the Left Bank is renowned for its intellectual and cultural aplomb. The Sorbonne and Shakespeare & Co are two legendary institutions in the vibrant Latin Quarter, and the area was once popular with writers and artists ranging from Gertrude Stein and Pablo Picasso to Jean-Paul Sartre.
Depending on your interests, there are dozens of ways to discover the Left Bank and its sights. Hop-on hop-off busses, Segways, and bike tours all offer overviews of the area, while private driving tours let you customize your itinerary. Alternatively, soak up the Rive Gauche’s je ne sais quoi ambience on a walking tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- While the Left Bank contains only six arrondissements (compared to the Right Bank’s 14), its status as a cultural heavyweight makes it just as important and diverse.
- If you haven’t pre-booked Eiffel Tower entry, venture instead to the Tour Montparnasse, which offers impeccable views of the Left Bank and beyond.
- Visit the iconic Café de Flore to people watch—and to see the spot where Pablo Picasso and Simone de Beauvoir spent their time.
How to Get There
The Rive Gauche is home to several major stations (including the Gare d’Austerlitz and Gare Montparnasse), which are served by the TGV, RER, and numerous Métro and train lines. Dozens of other Métro stations and bus lines traverse the area. Paris is also a city that rewards walkers and cyclists, and the Left Bank is no exception.
When to Get There
Paris is picturesque in all seasons, and there’s never a bad time to visit the Left Bank (although, like the rest of the French capital, it’s quietest in August). During the warmer months, linger in the Jardin du Luxembourg, stroll the Jardin des Plantes, or enjoy Eiffel Tower views from the Champ de Mars. When the thermostat drops, explore museums like the Musée d’Orsay, Musée de Cluny, or the Musée de l’Armée at Invalides.
Famous Left Bank Eateries
It isn’t a Left Bank tour without a bite (or several) to eat. Venture to the iconic Poîlane bakery for fresh bread; browse the lively street market on the Rue Mouffetard; sample macarons at Pierre Hermé; and go to a classic restaurant, like La Closerie des Lilas, for dinner.
Address: France
From $ 29
Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
With more than 61 acres (25 hectares) of flower-lined lawns, formal French gardens, and shady chestnut groves, the Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are one of Paris’ most idyllic green spaces. On sunny afternoons, this is the Left Bank picnic spot of choice for fashionable Parisians.
The Basics
No sightseeing tour of the Latin Quarter and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood would be complete without a stroll through the manicured Luxembourg Gardens, a perfect spot for walking tour or biking tour. In addition to admiring the sculptures and monuments—including the Marie de Médicis fountain and the Pavillon Davioud—visitors can explore the Luxembourg Palace (Palais de Luxembourg), tour the Luxembourg Museum (Musée de Luxembourg), and stroll around the Orangerie, a 19th-century building that still houses citrus trees. Feeling romantic? Take advantage of the scenery and renew your wedding vows here—it’s become a popular trend in recent years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no admission fee to enter the park, but opening hours vary throughout the year.
- The park is fully wheelchair accessible, and accessible restrooms are located at the Auguste-Comte entrance.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in the park.
How to Get There
The Luxembourg Gardens straddle Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter in Paris’ 6th Arrondissement on the Left Bank of the Seine River. Bordered by Rue de Vaugirard to the north, Rue Auguste Comte to the south, and Rue Guynemer and Boulevard Saint-Michel to the west and east, the park is reachable on foot from the Latin Quarter and nearby attractions such as the Panthéon (a 10-minute walk). The closest metro station is the Odeon (Line 6) and the nearest RER station is Luxembourg (Line C).
When to Get There
The park is open year-round; each season has its charms. You’ll find open-air entertainment and festivals in summer, flowers in spring, foliage in autumn, and Christmas decorations around the holidays. The park gets busy on sunny afternoons, so if you’re hoping to take photos with crowd-free backgrounds, aim for an early-morning visit.
Family Fun at the Luxembourg Gardens
The park has a number of family-friendly activities. Take the kids to visit the beehives, try their hand at a pony ride, steer a rented model sailboat around the Grand Bassin lake, or play tennis. There’s also a playground, plus puppet shows, at the pint-sized Théâtre du Luxembourg.
Address: Boulevard St Michel, Paris 75006, France
Hours: Daily from 8am until sunset (7:30am in Summer).
Admission: Free
From $ 372
Lochnagar Crater
Often nicknamed the Glory Crater, the 80-meter wide and 30-meter deep Lochnagar Crater was created by a mine detonation executed by the 179th Tunneling Company Royal Engineers on the first day of the now-infamous Battle of the Somme at precisely 7:28 a.m. The mine itself consisted of 27 tons of explosives and was planted by Welsh miners in a secret tunnel between the English/French and German fronts in La Boisselle. The men had to work in a discreet yet highly effective manner, using bayonets with spliced handles for silence and working barefoot on a floor covered with sandbags. Spoil was passed hand-by-hand in sandbags and stored along the side of the tunnel. It would eventually be used to tamp the charge during the detonation. The men excavated the passageway at a rate of about 46 centimeters per day, eventually reaching 1,017 feet (310 meters) long, 2.5 feet (0.75 meters) wide and 4.5 feet (1.4 meters) high—unbeknownst to the German troops.
The crater has been preserved as a memorial ever since the end of the war, with a special service held at 7:28 a.m. on the first of every July, kick-starting the yearly Battle of the Somme commemorations. Visitors should know that Lochnagar Crater is the only remaining war-era crater that is open to the public and that the crater was named after Lochnagar Street, the trench from which the gallery was originally driven.
Practical Info
Lochnagar Crater is located 158 kilometers north of Paris just past Amiens. It can be reached via route A1 and D938 in less than two hours. There are no entrance fees.
Address: D20, Route de la Grande Mine, Ovillers-la-Boisselle 80300, France
From $ 150
Loire River
Known as the longest river in France, the Loire winds past epic medieval castles, breathtaking French countryside and vast vineyards famous for their sparkling whites and bold reds. Travelers who float down this scenic stretch (which was officially recognized by UNESCO in 2000) will find diverse wildlife, temperate climates and a wide variety of plant and tree species along the idyllic shores.
The river loops through 12 departments of France and streams past quiet towns and lively cities, making it an ideal route for visitors looking to explore the Loire Valley. History lovers architectural buffs will find more than 1,000 chateaux sprinkled along the river’s edge and nature enthusiasts can comb through the Foret d’Orleans, largest forest in France, which sits at the center of the Loire region.
Practical Info
The Loire River starts in Massif Central and empties into the Atlantic Ocean. It flows approximately 634 miles across France.
Address: France
From $ 29
Lyon Les Halles Paul Bocuse
The covered markets of the Les Halles de Lyon have been open since 1970. The full name of the markets includes the name Paul Bocuse, a legendary figure on both the French and international cooking scene. Many of the shops located here are star-rated by the Michelin guide, and more than 95% of the shops are run by business owners who really know their products. These are local businesses, which draws in loyal customers.
There are approximately 60 shops in Les Halles selling products that have to do with cooking and food. You'll find butchers, bakers, caterers, fishmongers, and more selling their high quality fresh products. It is also a showcase for local food products and a great place to find good meats, poultry, seafood, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables. You can also enjoy a sit down meal with a glass of wine at the markets.
Practical Info
Les Halles de Lyon is located at 102 Cours Lafayette.
Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, Lyon 69003, France
From $ 405
Lille Museum of Fine Arts (Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille)
Lille's Fine Arts Museum (Palais des Beaux-Arts) is giant—only the Louvre tops its size among France's museums—and its collection is suitably illustrious. Instituted in 1801 as part of Napoleon's push to bring art to the masses, the museum is housed in a splendid Belle Époque building dating from the late 1890s.
Stroll through the rooms and you'll find all the stars: Rubens and van Dyck, Picasso and Redon, Corot, Delacroix and David. Additionally, there is a wonderful decorative arts collection and a special curio: a selection of 18th-century models of fortified cities.
Practical Info
To get to the Palais, take Metro Line 1 to Republique station or bus 14 to place de la République.
Address: Place de République, Lille 59000, France
From $ 16
Lyon Cathedral (Cath edrale St-Jean)
Though overshadowed by the ornate Basilica Notre Dame, the Romanesque-Gothic beauty of the Cathedrale St Jean is the more ancient and important of Lyon's lovely churches. At the heart of Old Lyon, it is the home of the Primatiale of the Gauls, supreme over all the archbishops of France. The title was granted in 1079, though it is now largely symbolic.
The angular facade, begun in 1175 and completed in 1476, opens onto a far more extravagant interior, with several soaring chapels, stained glass dating to the 1300s, and most famously, the 1598 astronomical clock. Saint John's most noted attraction can calculate religious dates (such as Easter) until 2019, as well as the positions of stars above Lyon. But you're really here to see it in motion, complete with mechanical bell ringers and roosters.
At the heart of Old Lyon, the ancient Cathedrale St Jean can be reached on the Metro D line, Vieux Lyon-St. Jean. Be sure to show up at noon, 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. to see the astronomical clock chime.
Next door, the 11th-century Manécanterie (Choir School) may be the oldest extant building in Lyon; it's free to visit and open daily.
Address: 70 rue Saint Jean, Lyon, France
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 81
Lille M etropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art
Lille's Museum of Modern Art (now called LAM) was founded on the savvy eye of Roger Dutilleul, a collector who began picking up work by Picasso and other soon-to-become influential painters in the 1900s. His son inherited his collection and used it as a basis for today's museum.
As well as Picasso and Braque there are works by such luminaries as Modigliani, Miró and Léger, as well as a sculpture park (more Picasso!) and a noted collection of art brut.
Practical Info
The Museum of Modern Art is on the outskirts of Lille. To get there, take Line 1 of the metro to Pont de Bois station, then jump on bus 41 to the Parc Urbain-Musee stop.
Address: 1 allée de Musée, Lille, France
Hours: Closed Tues
From $ 29
Les Invalides
Built under the orders of Louis XIV beginning in 1670, Les Invalides—formally known as the Hôtel National des Invalides—was created as a hospital and care facility for wounded war veterans. Today, the site still serves that purpose, though the sprawling complex also comprises several museums, numerous courtyards, and Paris’ tallest dome.
The Basics
Located in the seventh arrondissement, Les Invalides is one of Paris’ most recognizable landmarks, and welcomes millions of visitors each year. In addition to its practical functions, the complex also contains three museums: the Musée de l’Armée (one of the world’s biggest collections dedicated to military history and art), the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (which contains historical models of fortified cities), and the Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération (a small museum that explores the French Resistance during World War II).
The jewel of Les Invalides is the Dôme des Invalides, which was inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Considered a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, the church’s gilded dome is, at 351 feet (107 meters) high, the loftiest in Paris. Within, the church houses the tombs of notable figures—most famously that of Napoleon Bonaparte. For those looking to explore further, Les Invalides is a frequent stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours; walking tour itineraries, meanwhile, make it simpler to navigate the enormous site, and also frequently include skip-the-line privileges.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A Les Invalides ticket includes entry to the Dôme (and the Tomb of Napoleon), the Saint-Louis Cathedral, the Charles de Gaulle Monument, and all three museums.
- In addition to its permanent collection, the Musée de l’Armée also hosts temporary exhibitions.
- Les Invalides is a popular destination for architecture lovers and history buffs, particularly those who are fascinated by military history.
How to Get There
Visitors can take Métro lines 8 or 13, or the RER C, to the Invalides stop. Les Invalides is also easily accessible on foot from other nearby attractions, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.
When to Get There
The Invalides complex is open daily from 7am–7:30pm (except on Tuesdays from April–September, when it closes at 9pm). Individual museums and on-site attractions have a range of visiting hours (and holiday closures), so be sure to research opening times in advance. Les Invalides also hosts and participates in a number of events throughout the year, including the International Automobile Festival, Nuit Blanche, Night at Les Invalides, concerts and film screenings, and more.
Les Invalides and the French Revolution
Les Invalides played an important role in the French Revolution: a mob stormed the site and took thousands of weapons, including guns and cannons, before continuing onward to the Bastille.
Address: 129 rue de Grenelle, Paris 75700, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 14