France Travel Guide 2025: Top Cities and Nature Spots

By Kim de Leeuw & Elise Guichard

“Bonjour, une baguette s’il vous plait.” Searching for your next memorable adventure? The ultimate travel destination in France is timeless yet modern, past with future, charisma with adventure. From famous attractions such as the Eiffel Tower to offbeat locals in small towns, this guide lays out everything you need to know for a memorable trip. Whether you are foodies, history buffs, or nature lovers, the magical experiences that await are endless.

France has always captured the imagination of visitors around the globe, with a storied history, rich culture, and extraordinary scenery. Between 2023 and 2024, the country hosted more than 100 million international tourists, a new record that cemented its position as the planet’s most popular destination.

Besides, day after day, visiting the deliciously fragrant bakery in the village has become a cherished ritual for everyone in France. Eating French bread is now part of the routine, alongside sipping wine and enjoying late dinners, quintessentially French habits that reflect the country’s unique lifestyle.

After spending five summers working here, we have uncovered remarkable places across the country. Together with Elise, our former intern from France, we’ve curated a list of our favorite spots to share with you.

Quick guide to France’s top travel highlights in 2025

Planning your trip? Here’s a quick look at what makes France a must-visit destination this year:

• Nature Escapes: Explore eco-friendly trails in Corsica or relax on the pristine beaches of Les Landes.

• City Adventures: Don’t miss Paris’s Expo Universelle or new cultural festivals in Toulouse and Lille.

• Charming Villages: Wander through picturesque towns like Honfleur and Beuvron-en-Auge.

• Historical Sites: Experience virtual reality tours at Avignon’s Palais des Papes or marvel at Mont Saint-Michel.

• Food & Wine: Savor Lyon’s world-class cuisine or sip sustainable champagne in Reims.

Ready to dive deeper? Let’s explore France’s best destinations in detail.

Why visit France in 2025?

France remains one of the most popular destinations for tourists globally, even in 2025. That’s hardly a surprise, given the country’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and unmatched culinary scene. This year is shaping up with exciting updates, everything from new festivals to eco-tourism destinations in France. These initiatives to enhance visitor experiences make the thought of visiting France even more enticing than ever, with different natural spots in France.

Whether you’re wandering the streets in Paris during the Expo Universelle or sipping wine straight from sustainably managed vineyards in Champagne, there’s never been a better time to explore this captivating country.

France nature wonders

Étretat Cliffs

On Normandy’s Alabaster Coast, the white chalk cliffs and natural arches of Étretat cliffs boast stunning views. The little town below the hill is also highly recommended, making this area a must-visit if you love to be close to nature.

In addition to the new conservation development, visitors can now experience this natural event while promoting its preservation for generations to come. Be sure to bring your camera; the views are postcard-perfect!

The Landes

In Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the Les Landes beaches region features sandy pine forests and clean Atlantic beaches. It’s a perfect place to surf, cycle or just enjoy nature’s tranquillity.

This tranquil region is perfect for nature lovers. In 2025, Les Landes launched eco-friendly bike tours through its green pine forests and along its golden shores. What is also trending here are surfing lessons for beginners and pros alike.

Corsica

Corsica, or l’île de beauté (the island of beauty), is one of the most cherished destinations in France. It’s not so much a mecca for international tourists, many French from the mainland have traveled to Corsica at least once in their lives. This Mediterranean jewel is known for its natural beauty, variety of landscapes, and unprecedented experiences. Corsica is unique & special, no matter if you love nature or mountains, if you are an adventurer or just looking to relax.

Corsica’s allure is its diversity. The island boasts towering mountains, pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs, a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors. You can hike rugged paths with sweeping views, sunbathe on remote beaches and take a boat tour to discover secluded coves and coastal curiosities. You may also see wild pigs walking the streets, and wildlife visits are chronic!

Corsica boasts breathtaking natural wonders that cater to every type of traveler:

• Mount Cinto: Peaks reaching above 2,700 meters, snow-covered, casting spectacular views and with various steep hiking trails.
• Scandola Nature Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site only reachable via boat, known for its striking red cliffs, sea caves, and diverse marine life.
• Vallée du Fango: A UNESCO biosphere reserve that is dense in forests and marshlands with unique flora and fauna.
• Hidden Beaches: Explore secluded coves featuring crystal-clear waters, which are great for swimming or snorkeling.

A Mediterranean climate means Corsica is good to visit all year round. Summers are ideal for beachgoers, and spring and autumn are great seasons for hiking and exploring without the crowds. Whether you opt for adventure or relaxation, Corsica provides endless unforgettable experiences.

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Montpellier

Montpellier’s medieval streets and spirited energy are always a hit. Begin at Place de la Comédie and then explore nearby attractions such as Salagou Lake or even Carcassonne.

When visiting Montpellier, we would advise you to start at Place de la Comédie, the vibrant heart of the city. From there, you can discover the rest of the old town with its medieval streets and beautiful courtyards. You can combine a vacation to Montpellier with a visit to Salagou Lake, the Camargue, Carcassonne, or Narbonne. Our favorites, Sète and Nîmes, are also not too far away!

In 2025, Montpellier boasts new art installations in its historic courtyards, a treat for culture enthusiasts.

Grenoble

Grenoble, capital of the French Alps, is a cozy student city and the ideal base for a skiing holiday. However, even when there is no snow, the city is definitely worth a visit. The main tourist attraction is the so-called bubbles, the cable car that brings you to the Bastille fort. From here you have an amazing view over the city, the Vaucluse massif, the Chartreuse and, with good weather, the Mont Blanc. At the top, you can also find the Mountain Troops Museum, participate in the Acrobastille ropes course, enjoy fine dining or visit parts of the fort. Make sure to make your way down again on time to walk around the French villages with historical charm center and have a drink at one of the many terraces.

France: Villages and small towns

Beuvron-en-Auge

Once we had read that Beuvron-en-Auge is supposedly one of the prettiest villages in France, we knew we had to pay a visit to this tiny village, and it definitely did not disappoint. Wherever in the village you are, you can see charming, half-timbered houses from the 17th and 18th centuries. Wander around the village and make sure not to miss the central square. We are sure you will like this place as much as I did! You can add Beuvron-en-Auge as a stop when you are following France’s cider route or when you are visiting the Calvados region in Normandy.

Coloured houses of Beuvron-en-Auge

Honfleur

Let’s talk about another destination in Calvados, Normandy: Honfleur. The village is known for its port, and we don’t think we have seen a prettier port than this one. If you don’t believe me, just have a look at the photo below. The colourful buildings along the port are genuinely enchanting and have always formed a great inspiration for artists like Monet. However, Honfleur is more than just the port, and we would recommend discovering this town on foot. There are plenty of lovely shops, pretty streets, traditional markets and cozy squares. 

Harbour of Honfleur

Pont-en-Royans

France is home to countless charming villages, and Pont-en-Royans is one of them. If you are visiting the Vercors region, Pont-en-Royans is a great place to visit. Eyecatchers of this village are the houses and their balconies that hang over the river Bourne, but you should definitely walk down to the river as well. With its cold water, the river is the ultimate place to cool down during one of these warm summer days in France. You can find a great mix of locals and tourists having a picnic along the riverside. Other highlights of the village are the Musée de l’Eau and the old feudal tower. Only a couple of minutes away from the villages, you can find the Cascades Blanches, a stunning waterfall hidden in the woods, and the Grotte de Choranche, housing bright white stalactites.  

Famous historical places in France

Nîmes

Nîmes was an essential outpost of the Roman empire, and that is still visible today. Amongst others, you can find Roman temples, an amphitheatre, a watch tower and a city park filled with Roman remains. I loved walking around all these ancient remnants. However, keep in mind that these highlights are quite far away from each other, so you definitely need to take out a full day to visit this beautiful city. Especially because there is much more to do than just visit the Roman remains. 

Roman Remains in Nîmes

Pont du Gard

Another Roman remnant is the Pont du Gard. This aqueduct was once 50 kilometres long, but nowadays only a small part is left. You only realise how big and majestic the aqueduct is when you are walking next to it. Or on it. This waterbridge is a truly impressive piece of architecture and a must-see in my opinion. 

 

 

Aqueduct Pont du Gard

Palais des Papes – Avignon

Avignon is mostly known for being the former residence of the popes. The whole historic centre is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but I think the Palais des Papes is the most impressive. This is where you can see how the former popes used to live. When you get closer to the palace, it almost looks like a fortress. The palace was built in such a way that it was impossible to conquer it. Other interesting sites are the Pont d’Avignon and the Place de l’Horloge. 

Palais des Papes in Avignon

 

Mont Saint-Michel

Is there something more idyllic than Mont Saint-Michel? The island even inspired the creators of Disney’s movie Tangled. For years, the island had been an important pilgrimage destination, but now it is filled with tourists. Try to avoid the peak season, because during these days you won’t be able to take one step without bumping into somebody. 

The Mont Saint-Michel

WWII remains – Normandy

The first time we worked in France, we were situated in Carentan, a small town in Normandy close to Utah Beach. From there, I explored most of the landmarks of World War II by bike. Indeed, it is possible to bike in Normandy. There are some nice cycling paths. We do not have a specific recommendation of which site not to miss.

Each site tells its own story, and they all display an important part of our history. However, we recommend visiting at least one museum, one cemetery, and one of the D-Day beaches. 

Sainte-Mère-Église and the German cemetery la Cambe 

Traces of Joan of Arc – Rouen

Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is definitely one of my favourite cities in the region. The city, being a student city, is very vibrant and is home to many cozy squares. The architecture is brilliant and there are some interesting landmarks. However, what I liked most was to find the traces of Jeanne d’Arc. As a kid, I absolutely loved the story of Jeanne and visiting the museum in her honour was really interesting. Did you know that this is the place where Jeanne ended up at the funeral pyre?

 

Streets of Rouen

France beach hotspots

Biarritz

When you say Biarritz, you say surfing town. If you are into surfing, you can eat your heart out in this seaside town. However, Biarritz has so much more to offer! There are a couple of historical places like the fishing port and the lighthouse (yes, you can climb this one) that you can visit. What about one of the many festivals or local markets? Never a dull moment here. 

Biarritz

Sète

Sète is home to one of the biggest ports in France, but it also has some great beaches, many small shops, and a lively city centre with many terraces. What else could you ask for from a beach destination? The majestic houses along the canal and the coloured boats in the canal offer a great view when you are walking through this city. If you want to see the city and the sea from above, you can walk up the hill Mont Saint-Clair to get some great views. 

Canals of Sète

Food destinations

Roquefort-sur-Soulzon

Blue cheese. You hate it or you love it. We thought we weren’t into blue cheese, and we never ate it back home. But once I visited the Roquefort caves in Roquefort-sur-Soulzon and tried some of excellent quality, we immediately changed our minds. It’s delicious! When you are in the Aveyron, go visit the Roquefort caves and get a nice tour and tasting in one of the caves.

Le Papillon is one of the well-known brands in France. Did you know that this type of blue cheese is only allowed to be called Roquefort when it comes from this tiny village? However, don’t miss out on the village itself: the streets are very pretty and colourful. There is also an opportunity to walk to a gorgeous viewpoint, if you follow the right path. 

Roquefort cheese and village

Lyon

Lyon might actually be our favourite city in France. The atmosphere is very cozy, and there is something to see from every corner. Try to find the Traboules, hidden passageways, look for the frescoes and murals in the tromp l’oeil style, visit the Roman amphitheaters and other historic sites, or stroll through Vieux Lyon, the old centre. 

We absolutely love viewpoints, and Lyon has plenty of those as the city is built on a hill. The most famous viewing point can be found at Fourvière, the hill on which you can also find the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière. However, if you visit the ruins of the Roman baths, you will also have a great view over the city, and there will hardly be any other tourists. We visited this place during a free walking tour, and we highly recommend you do the same to discover the (hidden) gems of the city. 

Lyon is known for being the gastronomy capital of France. Indeed, this city is the hometown of Paul Bocuse, the famous chef and of many tasty dishes such as the quenelles (creamed fish or meat), the praline pie, and the bugnes (some pastry). If you can visit this city, we advise you to eat at a Bouchon Lyonnais, which are typical restaurants of Lyon, with traditional dishes.

Views of Lyon

Wine destinations

It is not possible to talk about France without mentioning wine! In fact, one of the many symbols of this country is wine. France has several regions dedicated to different types of wine, such as Bordeaux for red wine or Bourgogne for white wine.

Champagne vineyards

Let’s not forget about champagne either. This type of sparkling wine is only allowed to be called champagne when it is produced according to the traditional methods in the Champagne region. Once you are in the region, you can visit one of the many champagne houses for a tour and a tasting. You can find all the famous houses, like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, in Épernay or Reims. We visited Pommery Vranken in Reims, because a large part of the caves is accessible to visitors.

In addition,  would recommend staying in Reims as the city has a nice, vibrant ambiance, and there are plenty of nice places to have dinner at the place Drouet d’Erlon. From Reims, you can drive the Route Touristique du Champagne to Épernay (about 70 km), which is one of the sections of this long route. Also, when you’re in Champagne, don’t miss out on Troyes, which has lovely houses and Lac du Der.

Troyes and Lac du Der