Choose from 490 Fun Things to Do in France
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Orangerie
Stretching over 2,600 hectares, the Parc de l’Orangerie is Strasbourg’s largest and oldest public park and the principal attraction of the city’s northeastern Orangerie neighborhood, or European Quarter. The tranquil, flower-lined gardens were created in honor of Napoléon’s wife Joséphine (although the empress never visited the park) and were laid out in 1804 by André Le Nôtre, who was best known for designing the gardens of the Palace of Versailles.
One of the Orangerie’s principal landmarks is the Europe Parliament building, which fronts the northwest entrance to the park and has served as the seat of the Council of Europe since 1977. It’s an impressive sight, lined with flags from the EU’s 28 member states. Additional highlights of the park include the Joséphine Pavilion, a small zoo and stork sanctuary, a rowing lake and several playgrounds, as well as a network of walking and cycling trails.
Practical Info
The Orangerie Park is located a mile northeast of Strasbourg’s Grande Ile and can be reached by tramline 6 from the city center. Admission to both the park and zoo is free.
Address: Avenue de l'Europe, Strasbourg, France
Hours: 24 hours
From $ 70
Notre Dame Cathedral
Second only to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) is one of Paris' most iconic attractions, a marvel of medieval architecture that was immortalized in Victor Hugo's classic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Today, the Gothic grandeur and stained-glass windows of the UNESCO World Heritage site continue to reign supreme from Ile de la Cite, an island in the middle of the Seine River.
When to Get There
The Basics
Notre Dame's immense interior exemplifies French Gothic architecture—fluted columns, ribbed vaults, and sculptures demand attention from every angle, while the light that pours through prismatic windows gives the basilica an ethereal ambiance. If you climb the 387 steps of the north tower, braving gargoyles along the way, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Paris.
Notre Dame's immense interior exemplifies French Gothic architecture—fluted columns, ribbed vaults, and sculptures demand attention from every angle, while the light that pours through prismatic windows gives the basilica an ethereal ambiance. If you climb the 387 steps of the north tower, braving gargoyles along the way, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Paris.
Guided tours that include skip-the-line entry are the best way to visit the cathedral; not only will you avoid long lines, but your guide's expertise will ensure you notice the details that make Notre Dame such an architectural masterpiece. The cathedral can also be visited as part of a full-day Paris sightseeing tour—itineraries typically cover icons such as the Louvre museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Montmartre neighborhood, or include a Seine River cruise, and provide insight into the history and culture of France.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame's central location makes it incredibly easy to reach by public transport: take the RER B or RER C line to St-Michel Notre Dame, or disembark at Cite on Line 4 of the Metro. If you're enjoying the luxury of time, follow the route of the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower for a one-hour walk brimming with highlights and hidden gems.
- Both private tours and group tours are available.
- The cathedral always draws crowds—book a skip-the-line ticket to save time.
- A Paris museum pass (with either 2-, 4-, or 6-day validity) covers skip-the-line entry to 50 top Paris attractions, including the Notre Dame and Musee d'Orsay.
Notre Dame's central location makes it incredibly easy to reach by public transport: take the RER B or RER C line to St-Michel Notre Dame, or disembark at Cite on Line 4 of the Metro. If you're enjoying the luxury of time, follow the route of the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower for a one-hour walk brimming with highlights and hidden gems.
When to Get There
In the evening, the square before the cathedral comes to life in a riot of music and performance. Watch street performers juggle fire, grab a bite from a vendor, or just simply soak in the Notre Dame illuminated by night. If visiting Paris in winter, head to the Notre Dame toward the end of its 7:45am to 6:45pm (7:15pm on weekends) opening hours to watch the sunset and see the City of Light twinkle.
Address: 6 Place du Parvis Notre Dame, Paris 75004, France
Admission: Free
From $ 12
Newfoundland Memorial
Newfoundland Memorial Park opened in June 1925 as an homage to members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment that served alongside the British Army in World War 1. It is one of only two Canadian historical sites that exists outside of Canada (the other is in France, too).
Visitors enter the memorial through the main gate and are immediately met by a large dedication stone with a bronze cast statue and an engraved quote by John Oxenham. The somber reminder sets the tone for what many describe as a truly unique experience. A large triangular stone reminiscent of the 29th Division’s badge recognizes the men who lost their lives at the hands of the Germans and five Caribou statues mark an important place in the battle or serve as a tribute to fallen soldiers. The memorial park is also home to three cemeteries: Hawthorn Ridge, Hunter’s and Y Ravine.
Practical Info
The park is located at the Somme Battlefield near the Beaumont Hamel. The Visitors’ Center is open daily and guided tours lead by Canadian students sponsored by Veterans Affairs Canada are available free of charge.
Address: Rue de l'Église, Beaumont-Hamel 80300, France
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 44
Palace of Versailles
Formerly a (comparatively) humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles (Chateau de Versailles) is the extravagant creation of Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. Embellished to epitomize ultimate royal decadence, the inequality of which tindered the French Revolution, Versailles Palace is a feast for the eyes — its 700 rooms are replete with frescoed ceilings and carvings, while the Versailles Gardens (Jardins de Versailles) brim with geometrically designed walkways and fountains. No visit to Paris, or France for that matter, is complete without experiencing the grandeur of Versailles.
The Basics
Visiting every one of the palace's 700 rooms would take days, so a Versailles guided tour that encapsulates Chateau de Versailles' highlights is indisputably the best option. In the Hall of Mirrors, gold-framed windows let in heavenly light, while priceless antique furniture decorates the King's Grand Chambers. The Royal Chapel's seemingly interminable columns are divine to behold, and in the Gardens of Versailles, the colossal Grand Canal dominates while the Musical Fountains dance to classical music at regular intervals.
The Basics
Visiting every one of the palace's 700 rooms would take days, so a Versailles guided tour that encapsulates Chateau de Versailles' highlights is indisputably the best option. In the Hall of Mirrors, gold-framed windows let in heavenly light, while priceless antique furniture decorates the King's Grand Chambers. The Royal Chapel's seemingly interminable columns are divine to behold, and in the Gardens of Versailles, the colossal Grand Canal dominates while the Musical Fountains dance to classical music at regular intervals.
Lines can be long, often exceeding two hours, so purchase a skip-the-line ticket to spend less time waiting and more time exploring the Versailles Palace and Gardens. Various combo tours include skip-the-line entry at both the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre museum and a Versailles Palace tour, allowing travelers to maximize their time in Paris. History buffs should consider a private tour for tailored insight into the residence's history, particularly Marie Antoinette's exile in the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, while active travelers can tour Versailles by bike to cover more ground in less time. On a full-day tour, fans of Impressionist art can combine Versailles with a visit to Giverny, the village that inspired the water lily paintings of Claude Monet.
How To Get to the Palace of Versailles
The palace is located in the small township of Versailles, 13 miles (21 km) outside of Paris, and is easy to reach by train. Catch RER C from Paris to Versailles Rive Gauche station, only a 10-minute walk away from the palace. You can also catch the SNCF train from Paris Montparnasse station to Versailles Chantiers or from Paris Saint Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite station.
- The palace is incredibly popular — book a skip-the-line ticket to save time.
- The majority of tours from Paris include hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Select a tour that combines round-trip transport with an audio guide for a self-guided experience.
The palace is located in the small township of Versailles, 13 miles (21 km) outside of Paris, and is easy to reach by train. Catch RER C from Paris to Versailles Rive Gauche station, only a 10-minute walk away from the palace. You can also catch the SNCF train from Paris Montparnasse station to Versailles Chantiers or from Paris Saint Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite station.
When to Get There
At night, when the palace lights are illuminated and the sun has set, the gardens' Musical Fountains are at their most magical. Visit the Versailles Gardens on a Saturday evening between June 17 and September 16 to see a particularly special fountain performance crowned with a fireworks display.
Address: Place d'Armes, Versailles, Ile-de-France 78000, France
Hours: Tues–Sun 9am – 6:30pm in summer; 9am – 5:30pm in winter. Gardens and park open daily. Closed Jan 1, Apr 5, May 1, May 24, Nov 1, and Dec 25.
Admission: €18 for all-access pass (includes audio tour)
From $ 33
Palais Bourbon
Built in 1722 as a private mansion for the duchesse de Bourbon, a legitimized daughter of Louis XIV, the Palais Bourbon has served as the meeting place for the Assemblée Nationale (the lower house of the French parliament) since 1798 when it was called the Council of Five Hundred.
Today, the government building is easily recognizable by the colonnaded facade commissioned by Napoleon to resemble the portico of the Madeleine across the Seine. On display within the Palais Bourbon are cupolas painted by the French Romantic artist Eugene Delacroix, as well as several works by contemporary artists.
By reservation only, visitors can observe a live session of the National Assembly or participate in guided tours focused on the building’s art, architecture and the workings of the French parliament.
Practical Info
If you don’t have time to reserve a visit ahead of time, plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour or session you want to attend in case there are extra spots available.
Address: 33 Quai d'Orsay, Paris, France
From $ 81
Op era Garnier
Home to the Opera de Paris, ballet performances, and the fictional Phantom of the Opera, the grand 19th-century Opera Garnier—also known as Palais Garnier—recalls the splendor of France’s Second Empire, an era synonymous with elegance and extravagance. Beyond its opulent exterior and foyer, the 2,000-seat auditorium is a riot of red velvet, gold, and bronze, with a massive chandelier and a colorful ceiling painting by modernist master Marc Chagall.
The Basics
With its gilding, grandeur, and lavish ornamentation, Opera Garnier is often compared to the Palace of Versailles. While you can admire architect Charles Garnier’s Beaux-Arts and neo-baroque masterpiece from the outside on Paris sightseeing tours, it’s also possible to see the interior by attending a performance or taking a self-guided audio tour or a guided tour of the venue. Book an after-hours tour to explore the Opera Garnier without the crowds. You can also combine a tour of Opera Garnier with visits to other nearby architectural gems, such as the historic Galeries Lafayette department store and the passages couverts (covered shopping galleries).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The bar inside the theater sells drinks before performances and during intermissions.
- Operas are usually performed in their original language, with French (and sometimes English) supertitles.
- While no official dress code is enforced for regular performances, most operagoers dress smartly. For special gala events, attendees wear more formal attire.
How to Get There
Palais Garnier is in the Opera and Grand Boulevards area, one of Paris’ shopping hotspots. The Opera station, just across the street from the venue, can be accessed by Metro lines 3, 7, and 8, while lines 7 and 9 serve the nearby Chaussee d’Antin–La Fayette station. Alternatively, take the RER A line to Auber station.
When to Get There
Opera Garnier tours are held daily throughout the year and attract the biggest numbers during summer. To escape the crowds, book an after-hours tour, which allows you to traverse quiet corridors and the hushed auditorium without the daytime crowds. Note that access to the auditorium is dependent on availability; for the best chance of seeing it, opt for a morning tour, as rehearsals typically take place in the afternoon.
Highlights of the Palais Interior
The interior’s standout features are the fresco- and gold-adorned Grand Foyer, the bronze Pythonisse sculpture, and the imposing Grand Staircase (Grand Escalier). Auditorium highlights include the 2,600-square-foot (241-square-meter) ceiling painting by Marc Chagall, in the center of which hangs an enormous, seven-ton crystal and bronze chandelier that inspired the dramatic chandelier drop in Gaston Leroux’s “Phantom of the Opera.”
Address: 8 Rue Scribe, Paris 75009, France
Hours: Open Daily 10am – 5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
National Prehistoric Museum (Mus ee National de Pr ehistoire)
Aquitaine’s National Prehistoric Museum was founded in 1918 by Denis Peyrony on the des Eyzies-de-Tayac commune, in the very heart of the UNESCO Valley of Mankind and prehistoric capital of the world. The site as well as its collections are rich in history. It holds one of France’s most important Paleolithic collections including the first global set of Paleolithic art on engraved or carved blocks.
The museum’s displays enable visitors to see the oldest traces of life left by mankind and to understand the evolution of societies over the last 400 millennia. Objects on display include stone tools, art objects made of bone or ivory, and life-size imitations of prehistoric humans and extinct animals. The museum was expanded in 2004.
Practical Info
The museum is located on Rue du Musée in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac Sireuil. It is just 45 kilometers away from Périgueux-Sarlat and can be reached in half an hour via D47. It is open every day from 9:30am until 6:30pm in July and August as well as June and September with the exception that Tuesdays are closed. It is also open from 9:30am to 12:30pm and from 2pm to 5:30pm between October and May. Last admission is 45 minutes before closure. The visit costs €6 / €4.50 (full rate / reduced rate) and is free on the first Sunday of every month. The museum is fully accessible to those with reduced mobility.
Address: 1 Rue du Musée, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, Aquitaine-Limousin-Poitou-Charentes 24620, France
Hours: July to August: daily 9:30am – 6:30pm; June & September: Wedneday-Monday from 9:30am – 6pm; October to May: Wednesday-Monday 9:30am – 12:30pm & 2pm – 5:30pm; Closed December 25 and January 1st
Admission: Full rate: €6; Reduced rate: €4.50
From $ 162
Orange
Orange is a town in the Provence region of France with a mainly agricultural economy. The famous town is known because the Romans left their mark there; Orange is often cited as having the most impressive Roman architecture still standing in Europe.
The town’s Roman theatre and Triumphal Arch of Orange and surroundings were classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. In addition, the town’s Museum holds the largest marble cadastral Roman maps ever discovered. Orange’s lovely cobblestoned pedestrian roads, plazas, and fountains make it a charming place to visit.
Practical Info
Orange is located about 21 kilometers (13 miles) north of Avignon. The town's Roman Theatre plays host to annual opera music festival in the summer.
Address: Orange 84100, France
From $ 75
Od eon, Th eatre de L'Europe
Designed by architects Marie-Joseph Peyre and Charles de Wailly, the Odeon, Théatre de L'Europe, or the European Theatre of Paris, was opened by Marie-Antoinette in 1782 and remains one of the city’s most popular theaters. The oldest theater auditorium in Paris, the Odeon was inaugurated in 1971 as one of France’s six national theaters and boasts a rich history of Parisian arts, including hosting the famous Comédie Française.
Located in the heart of the city’s atmospheric Left Bank, in the 6th arrondissement, the theater maintains its original colonnaded neoclassical façade and dramatic foyer, masterminded by Chalgrin, celebrated architect of the Triumphal arch. Today, the theater showcases a range classical, contemporary and experimental plays, with performances held regularly throughout the year and the emphasis on promoting national theater and nurturing upcoming talent.
Located in the heart of the city’s atmospheric Left Bank, in the 6th arrondissement, the theater maintains its original colonnaded neoclassical façade and dramatic foyer, masterminded by Chalgrin, celebrated architect of the Triumphal arch. Today, the theater showcases a range classical, contemporary and experimental plays, with performances held regularly throughout the year and the emphasis on promoting national theater and nurturing upcoming talent.
Address: 2 Rue Corneille, Paris 75006, France
Admission: Prices vary per Event
From $ 54
Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon)
At the foot of Fourviére Hill, the historical streets of Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) offer a welcome change of pace from the modern city across the river. With elegant medieval churches, Renaissance-era monuments, and pastel-painted facades, this is Lyon’s most atmospheric district.
The Basics
There are many options for exploring Old Lyon, from walking tours and standard or electric bike tours to Segway jaunts and hop-on hop-off bus excursions. In addition to Old Lyon, city tours often visit neighborhoods such as La Croix-Rousse and the Presqu’île and ride the funicular up to the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière for impressive city views. Food tours explore Lyon’s gastronomic heritage at the famous Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market and restaurants around Old Lyon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Lyon is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors.
- The narrow lanes of Vieux Lyon are mostly pedestrianized and best explored on foot—wear comfortable shoes.
- The majority of cafés and restaurants can be found along Rue Tramassac, but the quayside bars and restaurants offer the best views at night.
How to Get There
Old Lyon stretches along the left bank of the Saône River, with Fourviére Hill rising to the west. It’s a short stroll across the bridge from Place Bellecour or Place des Jacobins, and the closest metro station is Vieux Lyon (line D). Funiculars for Fourvière Hill also run from this station.
When to Get There
Explore the streets of Old Lyon in the morning to avoid the crowds and take photos of the beautiful historical buildings, or visit in the evening to dine along the riverfront. The most spectacular time to visit Old Lyon is during the annual Festival of Lights in December, when dazzling light projections brighten up landmarks such as Saint John the Baptist Cathedral (Cathédrale-Saint-Jean-Baptiste, or Lyon Cathedral).
Architecture of Vieux Lyon
With buildings dating from as early as the 11th century, the streets of Vieux Lyon are bursting with architectural treasures. The star attraction is Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, with its stunning stained glass windows and striking mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Nearby are the Maison du Crible mansion, with its much-photographed pink tower, and a number of historical traboules (narrow alleyways). In the northern Saint Paul quarter, the Gothic Maison du Consul and the grand Hotel Gadagne (now part of the Musées Gadagne) are notable highlights, while the Saint Georges quarter was Lyon’s original silk-weaving area and is home to the riverfront Church of Saint George (Église Saint-Georges).
Address: Rue Saint-Jean, Lyon, France
Admission: Free
From $ 10
Notre Dame de Lorette
Also known as Ablain Saint-Nazaire French Military Cemetery, Notre Dame de Lorette contains the remains of 40,000 soldiers, as well as the ashes of many concentration camp victims. Located in Nord-Pas-de-Calais, this is the world’s largest French military cemetery, and its location isn’t a coincidence — the focal point of the three deadly battles of Artois, the ground was strategically important during World War I and was bitterly contested in a series of long and bloody engagements between the French and German armies over the course of a year.
The 25-hectare cemetery is located atop the 165-meter-high Notre Dame de Lorette hill and comprises 20,000 individual graves, laid out with no regards to rank or military training – hence why General Ernest Barbot, commander of the French 77th Mountain Division, is buried alongside one of his privates. The cemetery’s mission goes far beyond commemorating French soldiers: it is a living homage to every victim of every war. The site also contains a basilica, a lantern-tower, a museum, an east-facing Muslim cemetery and several ossuaries.
To mark the 100th anniversary of World War I on Nov. 11, 2014, President François Hollande unveiled a memorial named “Memory Ring;” the circular 300-ton monument features the names of the 600,000 soldiers who were killed in action between 1914 and 1918 in Nord-Pas-de-Calais.
Practical Info
Notre Dame de Lorette is located in Northern France, some 200 kilometers north of Paris (via route A1, A26 and D937) and 50 kilometers outside Lille (via N41, A21 and D937). There is ample free parking for cars at the cemetery site.
Address: Northern France, France
From $ 35
Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice)
A honeycomb of narrow streets dotted with baroque churches, lively markets, bustling squares, and a thriving nightlife scene, Nice’s oldest quarter remains the buzzing heart the modern city. Known in French as Le Vieux Nice, this seafront historic center offers an atmospheric introduction to Nice.
The Basics
Nice Old Town is best explored on foot. A small-group or private walking tour will take in all the main attractions, including the colorful Flower Market and the historic landmarks of Garibaldi Square (Place Garibaldi). Alternatively, opt for a Segway or bike tour and climb to the top of Castle Hill for a spectacular view of the city, glide along the famous Promenade des Anglais, or hop off to sample local foods at the Old Town market. Nice city tours are often combined with sightseeing tours of surrounding French Riviera towns such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cannes, Saint-Jeannet, or Monaco’s Monte Carlo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parking is scarce in Old Town and many streets are one-way or pedestrian-only, so it’s best to walk, use public transport, or travel by bike or Segway.
- Most of Old Town is wheelchair accessible, although there are some hills and cobblestone lanes.
How to Get There
Old Town is located in central Nice, with the seafront of Quay of the United States (Quai des États-Unis) to the south, Jean Jaurès Boulevard (Boulevard Jean Jaurès) to the north, and Castle Hill to the east. The easiest way to get there is by tram and the closest stops are Opera, Cathedrale, and Garibaldi.
When to Get There
Nice is at its busiest in July and August, when the Old Town can be crammed with tourists. Get there early to avoid large crowds and book ahead for restaurants in the evening. Outside of summer you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices, but be aware that some attractions and restaurants have reduced hours in winter. The holiday season is a popular time to visit, when a huge Christmas market is held on Masséna Square (Place Masséna).
A Walking Tour of Nice Old Town
Walk between Masséna Square, the Palace of Justice Square (Place du Palais de Justice), and Garibaldi Square, stopping along the way to admire the baroque Cathedral of Sainte Reparate (Cathédrale Sainte Réparate), browse the morning flower market along Cours Saleya, and grab an ice cream from the famous Fenocchio ice cream parlor. Other notable landmarks include the Chapel of Mercy (Chapelle de la Miséricorde), the Chapel of the Annunciation (Chapelle de l'Annonciation), Saint-Jacques Church (Eglise Saint-Jacques), and Lascaris Palace (Palais Lascaris).
Address: Nice 06000, France
From $ 17
Nice Museum of Asian Arts (Mus ee des Arts Asiatiques)
Located in Nice’s Phoenix park, the Museum of Asian Arts, as its name implies, aims to showcase a cohesive ensemble of various Asian arts. The museum was designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange and was opened in 1998 at the initiative of Jacques Médecin, mayor of Nice from 1966 until 1990.
In addition to the visit, the museum offers a wide range of activities including audio-guides in French, English, Italian and German (€2). Guided tours are available at 11am on the 3rd Saturday of the Month from September to June, and every Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm in July and August (€4). It is possible to register online or on-site. There are also workshops for both adults and children (€10 / €3.50) and calligraphy, origami and taï chi chuan and Qi gong classes, as well as a weekly tea ceremony. A full schedule is available on the website.
Practical Info
The museum is located on Promenade des Anglais in Nice. It can be reached by train at station Gare Saint-Augustin, by bus via lines 9, 10, and 23 at Aréanas stop, or by car following Promenade des Anglais along the coastline. Admission to the museum is free. It is open Wednesday to Monday, from 10am until 5pm, with the museum staying open an extra hour from May 2 until October 15. The museum is accessible to those with reduced mobility. It is possible to reach it by train (Métrazur Gare St-Augustin), by bus (“Arénas” stop of the 9, 10 and 23 lines andby car, by following the “Arénas” directions from the A8.
Address: 405 Promenade des Anglais, Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06200, France
Hours: Wednesday-Monday May 2 to October 15: 10am – 6pm October 16 to April 30: 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free / guided tour €4
From $ 92
Nimes
Although Nimes is in the Languedoc Region, its close proximity to Provence's Avignon make it a natural day trip destination – particularly if you're following the trail of Roman history that is so prevalent in the South of France. And what a history it has!
It's a history that stretches back to pre-Roman times, with various evidence of Bronze Age settlements. But with the Romans came more permanent colonization; soldiers were often given tracts of land in the area as payment for battles. The original Roman gates are still there, as is the Colosseum-style arena. Check the city's entertainment schedule before visiting, and catch a concert inside – something you can't do in Rome!
Throughout the city are various ruins that have been preserved as best as possible, but the jewel of Nimes is without a doubt the temple Maison Carrée. Built just before the turn of the millennium, its near-perfect condition makes it one of the finest examples of Roman architecture found anywhere in the world. Thomas Jefferson was so taken with it, in fact, that he has the statehouse in Virginia built in its likeness!
Today Nimes is a fairly large and bustling city, with great restaurants and gorgeous parks and other public green spaces. It's only about 45 minutes from Avignon, and on the way you can stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont du Gard, to soak in even more Roman architecture and history!
Address: Nimes, France
From $ 45
Omaha Beach
As one of Normandy’s D-Day landing beaches, Omaha beach was the backdrop to one of the most significant events of World War II, immortalized in the movie Saving Private Ryan and forever etched into history. Today, visitors to Omaha Beach can follow in the footsteps of the Allied soldiers and pay their respects at the American Cemetery.
The Basics
Guided tours of the five D-Day beaches—Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach, and Sword Beach—run from Bayeux, Caen, Le Havre, Carentan, and Paris, and often include visits to other Normandy battlefields such as Pointe du Hoc, Arromanches, and Pegasus Bridge. For a more personalized experience, opt for a private tour or small-group tour and choose to focus on the American, Canadian, or British sites and memorials.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most tours visit WWII cemeteries and memorials, so it’s important to dress and act respectfully.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the battle ruins and beaches.
- Some tours are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance with your tour operator.
How to Get There
Omaha Beach is located along the coast of Normandy in northern France, 15 miles (24 kilometers) northwest of Bayeux. Although buses run to the beach from Bayeux, the easiest way to visit is by private transportation or as part of a guided tour. The American Cemetery lies above the beach, from where a long walkway heads down to the beach itself.
When to Get There
Tours run to Omaha Beach year-round, but it can get busy during peak summer season. If you’re visiting in July and August, try to arrive early morning or early evening to avoid the large groups of day-trippers. The most moving time to visit is during the annual D-Day Festival, which commemorates the anniversary of the Allied Landings with a program of memorials, parades, and beachside picnics.
The D-Day Landings
Omaha Beach was the location of one of the most significant battles World War II. On June 6th 1944, American troops were given the task of securing Omaha beach as part of a strategy to land Allied troops along five points on the coast of Normandy—an operation code-named D-Day. Due to unforeseen tidal forces and stronger than expected German defenses, the American soldiers suffered massive losses—2,400 casualties in a day of bloody fighting. However, the landing was eventually successful with 34,000 troops securing the area for the Allies, and thus beginning the end of the war.
Address: France
Admission: Free
From $ 69
Orly Airport (ORY)
Orly Airport (ORY; official name, Aéroport de Paris-Orly) was built in 1932 and has always served as a secondary airport, first to Le Bourget and now to Charles de Gaulle. However, with almost 30 million passengers per year, it could hardly be considered a lesser airport. Orly mostly serves low-cost and regional airlines that fly within Europe, with many flights to former and current French colonies in Africa and the Caribbean. One airline goes to North America (Open Skies to New York's JFK).
Travelers should note that because of its regional dominance, Orly serves as a major connecting flight hub. This means that although a long-haul flight may land at Charles de Gaulle, the connecting flight could take off from Orly. Check itineraries carefully before booking, and make sure that there is at least six hours between flights to ensure proper immigration/customs/baggage claim/check-in time.
Practical Info
Orly Airport is located in the town of Orly, eight miles southeast of Paris. It is accessible via car on the A106 off the A6; via train on the RER B and the Orlyval shuttle; and RER C plus a regular shuttle. The Orlybus has direct routes from the airport to the 14th arrondissement in Paris. Note that the ticket machines in the airport do not accept foreign credit cards; cash must be paid at the manned ticket booth.
Address: Orly 94390, France
From $ 14
Palais de Chaillot
The Palais de Chaillot is located on the Place du Trocadéro in Paris’ 16th neighborhood (arrondissement). Because it is just across the river Seine from the Eiffel Tower, the terrace of the Palais de Chaillot provides one of the city’s best views of the tower — it is a great place to snap photos of the famous landmark. Visitors can easily spend an entire day visiting the Palais de Chaillot, the Eiffel Tower, and walking or taking a cruise along the Seine. The Palais’ surrounding gardens (Jardins du Trocadéro) are ten hectares surrounding Paris’ largest fountain, which is well worth viewing at night while lit up.
The Palais de Chaillot was originally built for the 1937 World’s Fair/Universal Expo, and today houses the national theater (Théâtre National de Chaillot) and a number of different museums: the Musée de la Marine (Naval Museum), the Musée de l'Homme (The Museum of Man), and a museum of architecture (Cité de l'architecture et du patrimoine). As if this weren’t enough to keep an inquisitive visitor occupied, the Palais de Chaillot also has an aquarium (called Cinéaqua), accessible from the Trocadero gardens. The aquarium is home to 10,000 fish and invertebrates, a shark tunnel, and its own movie theater.
Practical Info
No admission fee for the Palais de Chaillot and the Jardins du Trocadéro, admission fees and opening hours for each of the museums at the Palais vary.
Address: 1 Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, Paris 75016, France
Hours: Opening hours for each of the museums vary.
From $ 39
Obelisk of Luxor
A 75-foot monumental pillar fashioned from pink granite, the Obelisk of Luxor looms over Place de la Concorde, Paris’ largest and most famous square, flanked by the idyllic Jardin des Tuileries. Erected in 1836, the monument was gifted to King Charles X by the Viceroy of Egypt, one of the twin obelisks marking the entrance to the Temple of Luxor (its double remains seated at the temple entrance). Following the turbulence and bloodshed of the French Revolution, the Obelisk was erected in Place de la Concorde as a symbol of peace, replacing the former statue of Louis XV that was famously substituted for a guillotine during the uprisings and effectively erasing some of the square’s gruesome history.
Framed by fountains, the Luxor Obelisk, often-nicknamed Cleopatra’s Needle, is reminiscent of ancient Egyptian obelisks later exhumed in London and New York, and features original hieroglyphic tributes to the pharaoh Ramses II. Its original base carvings, now on display in the Louvre, have been replaced with images of its installation, a complex procedure to haul the 230-ton monolith into position. A gold leaf apex was added in 1998 to replace the missing original capstone, the most recent addition to the monument that dates back over 3000 years.
Framed by fountains, the Luxor Obelisk, often-nicknamed Cleopatra’s Needle, is reminiscent of ancient Egyptian obelisks later exhumed in London and New York, and features original hieroglyphic tributes to the pharaoh Ramses II. Its original base carvings, now on display in the Louvre, have been replaced with images of its installation, a complex procedure to haul the 230-ton monolith into position. A gold leaf apex was added in 1998 to replace the missing original capstone, the most recent addition to the monument that dates back over 3000 years.
Address: Place de la Concorde, Paris 75008, France
From $ 13
Oceanographic Museum (Musee Oceanographique)
The Oceanographic Museum (Musee Oceanographique), directed for many years by legendary Jacques-Yves Cousteau, rises from the cliffs in a magnificent location above the Mediterranean.
Dedicated to marine science and oceanography, the museum boasts unique collections of marine fauna collected by Monaco's pioneering "Navigator Prince," Prince Albert I, along with a world famous aquarium and shark lagoon. Four thousand species of fish and over 200 families of invertebrates can be seen swimming in the aquarium. Marine life in magnificent shapes and colors give a unique perspective of oceanic life, displaying the living beauty of the Mediterranean and tropical marine ecosystems with an extraordinarily diverse coral reef.
Exhibitions and collections feature rare species of fish and sea fauna (starfish, jellyfish, seahorses, crabs, lobsters, turtles, eels, sea urchins and sea cucumbers,) and a great variety of oceanographic objects, including model ships, sea animal skeletons and sailing tools.
The Museum celebrated its 100th birthday in March 2010, and is open daily except for the day of the Formula One Grand Prix.
Dedicated to marine science and oceanography, the museum boasts unique collections of marine fauna collected by Monaco's pioneering "Navigator Prince," Prince Albert I, along with a world famous aquarium and shark lagoon. Four thousand species of fish and over 200 families of invertebrates can be seen swimming in the aquarium. Marine life in magnificent shapes and colors give a unique perspective of oceanic life, displaying the living beauty of the Mediterranean and tropical marine ecosystems with an extraordinarily diverse coral reef.
Exhibitions and collections feature rare species of fish and sea fauna (starfish, jellyfish, seahorses, crabs, lobsters, turtles, eels, sea urchins and sea cucumbers,) and a great variety of oceanographic objects, including model ships, sea animal skeletons and sailing tools.
The Museum celebrated its 100th birthday in March 2010, and is open daily except for the day of the Formula One Grand Prix.
Address: Avenue Saint-Martin, Monaco-Ville 98000, Monaco
Hours: Open every day except the day of Formula One Grand Prix. Jan-Mar & Oct-Dec: 10am-6pm, Apr-June & Sept: 9:30am-7pm, Jul-Aug: 9:30am-7:30pm, Oct-Dec 10am-6pm
Admission: Adults: €13, children ages 4-18 and students: €6.50
From $ 13
Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes)
The largest Gothic palace in the world, Avignon’s Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes) was home to the heads of the Roman Catholic Church in the 14th century. Visitors can tour the grand rooms, landscaped gardens, and secret passages used by members of the clergy, and see special exhibitions and concerts held at the palace.
The Basics
The seat of the Roman Catholic Church moved from Rome to Avignon in the South of France in 1305, under the orders of Pope Clement V. Some 30 years later, construction of a huge papal palace began under Pope Benedict XII, on the site of the former Bishop’s Palace. The enormous scale of the fortified building can only really be appreciated in person. The interiors were equally grand, decorated with rich tapestries, frescoes, and carved wooden ceilings.
In later years, the palace served as a military barracks for Napoleon’s army, a prison, and even used as stables. It was restored as a museum in 1906. Highlights of the construction include the 170-foot-long (52 meter) Grand Chapel, and the central courtyard, which now plays host to theater and music performances. The palace draws visitors from all over the world who come to see the palace, often as part of a guided tour. Tours often combine the museum with visits to the nearby Chateauneuf-du-Pape winery and Provence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the palace is via paid ticket.
- Children under 8 enter for free.
- An interactive Histopad guide device is included in the admission price.
- Prebook a guided tour to skip the entry line.
- The palace is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Visitors can stop for a drink at the rooftop cafe.
How to Get There
The palace is located in central Avignon and is accessible on foot or as part of a walking tour from other central locations, including the St. Benezet bridge. Guided tours with transport included depart from towns including Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Paris.
When to Get There
The Palais des Papes is open every day of the year. Most people spend around two hours exploring the museum. Opening hours are seasonal: From April to June, it is open 9am–7pm. In July, 9am–8pm. In August, 9am–8:30pm. From September to February, 9:30am–5:45pm. In March, from 9am–6:30pm. Last entry is one hour before closing.
Experience the Avignon Jazz Festival
For one week every summer, the town of Avignon comes alive to the sound of jazz music. The Avignon Jazz Festival has operated since 1992 and welcomes some of the top names in jazz music to the Provencal city. Restaurants and cafes fill with music enthusiasts and there’s a celebratory atmosphere that all visitors will enjoy.
Address: 6, rue Pente Rapide, Avignon 84000, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 64