10 Breathtaking Places You Have to Visit in France Before You Die

10 Breathtaking Places You Have to Visit in France Before You Die

Paris is a wonder, but there are many, many more places in France that are, without a doubt, bucket list-worthy destinations. When you’re ready to venture out of the French capital, head to any one of these breathtaking places for experiences you’ll never forget.   

1. Pyrenees National Park in France

To experience that which is off the beaten track, one needs to leave the track entirely. The French national parks are some of the best zones to submerge oneself in the natural beauty that this land has to offer. 

Pyrenees National Park in France – by Alexey Komarov – Wikimedia Commons

The Pyrenees National Park is on the French and Spanish boarder. It’s a maze of forestry, waterfalls and gorgeous mountains. The climate is perfect for mushroom spotting year round; don’t hesitate to inquire at the visitor’s center for the best trails to follow.

2. The South of France

A place that needs little introduction: When people refer to the South of France, they’re usually referring to all of the cities, towns and villages that lie on the southernmost coast of the country. This is the coast that boarders the Atlantic Ocean; a region of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and gorgeous natural terrain.

Cannes, France – by Spike – Wikimedia Commons

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When summer arrives, Southern France is inhabited by holiday makers from all over the world. Popular destinations include Cannes, Nice, Bordeaux and Marseille. Toulouse and Montpellier are also part of the South of France.

3. Porte de Versailles in France

Personally I feel the best time to visit this part of France would be for the annual Street Food International Festival (SFIF). Held every September, the SFIF is a two day culinary showdown bringing some of the best street food vendors from around the world right here to France.

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At SFIF it’s all about flavor and execution. There is no pressure placed on technicalities and the chefs are not expected to win over the hearts of the public through elaborate demonstrations. With street food its always all about the finished product, and true foodies appreciate this on a spiritual level. A beautiful, diverse and eclectic food festival on the yearly bill here in France. Not to be missed!

4. Basilica of Saint Cecilia in France 

This basilica is one of Southern France’s most important religious buildings. Situated in Albi, it holds the official seat of the Archbishop of Albi himself, which makes it a very protected and highly esteemed space. 

Basilica of Saint Cecilia – by Krzysztof Golik – Wikimedia Commons

It took over 200 years to complete the building of this basilica, which was originally intended to be that of a fortress. Construction began in 1287, and it is thought to be the largest brick-made building on the face of the Earth. 

5. Vanoise National Park in France

The Vanoise National Park is situated about a two hour drive from Chamonix. It’s a massive park land that actually extends into Italy, making it one of the largest alpine national parks in the world. Vanoise looks like a landscape right out of untouched Canada. 

Vanoise National Park – by Ibex73 – Wikimedia Commons

Wildlife are a big attraction here in this park. It’s home to wolves, birds and lynx that travelers aspire to catch glimpses of. Mushrooms grow freely throughout the park, though you’ll have to spend some time getting to know the terrain before the best spots are made known to you. Anyways head toward the woods! 

6. Rouen in France

Another short train ride away, Rouen lies north of Paris in the region that is very much known for being a countryside dreamscape. Rouen is the capital of Normandy, and it holds a very rich history in terms of museums, art and gastronomy. Think medieval charm and pedestrian walkways no matter where you look.

Rouen in France – by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas – Wikimedia Commons

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Be sure to visit the Rouen Old Market Square to stand in the very spot where Joan of Arc was burned alive. 

7. Bordeaux in France

Wine lovers tend to make this is their destination of choice given its convenient proximity to the city of lights. Bordeaux is a fantastic place to spend a weekend, indulging in some of the best cuisine and wines to match.

Food aside, Bordeaux is wonderfully historic and filled with attractions and things to do. Bask in the medieval energy that rings through the city streets, while taking time to fall in love with the city’s nightlife too!

8. Omaha Beach in France

Once in Normandy, one can move quite swiftly along the coastline exploring all of the beach terrain that this part of the French country has to offer.

The Omaha beaches sit on the English Channel, and so they became a point of entry into France during the atrocities of World War II. When Normandy was invaded, the landings took place on the beaches across the coastline. 

Omaha Beach in France – by Barry Eagel – Wikimedia Commons

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The bloodiest of battles took place here on Omaha Beach, and so today it is a much sought after tourist attraction for the patriotic folk who come to visit the country.

9. Val d’Isere Ski Resort in France

France has a ton of ski resorts to choose from, but none come close to the wonder that is Val d’lsere. Situated in the heart of the French Alps, this area boasts Olympic downhills, challenging moguls, and powdery glacier pistes a top scenery that will make you want to pinch yourself. 

10. Chenonceau Castle in France

The Château de Chenonceau can be found spanning the river Cher, near the small village of Chenonceaux, Indre-et-Loire, Centre-Val de Loire. This is considered one of the better known châteaux of the Loire Valley. 

Chenonceau Castle – by Rolf Kranz – Wikimedia Commons

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Its first mentioned in the history books back in the 11^th century. There was initially an old mill on the site, before the existing castle was built between 1514 and 1522. A true work of art and must see if you’re at all interested in older French architecture.