What Not to Miss on Your First Trip to France

Are you heading to the romantic land of France? You’ve made the right choice, my friend. Besides the enormous amount of freshly baked baguettes and gallons of red wine available, France is loaded with exciting spots to see and things to do. This guide will lead you to the top spots around the country and give you insights into the best places to visit and what not to miss on your first trip to France.

With France being one of the most visited countries in the world, it’s evident that this country is full of exciting things to do and places to see. But what spots are the BEST? What places just can’t be missed so you have the absolute best French experience? From historical landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to rolling vineyards and luscious lavender fields, our guide is here to help you narrow down your options and provide you with what not to miss on your first trip to France.

Let’s start with the obvious: the most famous French tower there is; the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower is a must-see on your first trip to France because it’s not just a monument; it’s a symbol of Paris and France itself. Standing tall, it is a timeless icon of romance and elegance, and visiting it allows you to experience the magic of Paris firsthand. Whether you’re admiring its ironwork during the day or watching it sparkle with thousands of lights at night, the Eiffel Tower is almost impossible to miss on your first trip to France.

Next on our list of what not to miss on your first trip to France is the luxurious Versailles Palace. Once the residence of French kings and queens, Versailles is an example of Baroque architecture and lavish French design. From its Hall of Mirrors to its gardens and fountains, the palace offers a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of France’s royalty and takes you back in time to see up close and personal, the French monarchy.

The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most famous and prestigious art museums, easily making it a can’t-miss spot on your first trip to France. It has a collection of over 35,000 works of art spanning thousands of years, from the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo to ancient Egyptian artifacts and Renaissance sculptures. It showcases some of the best of human creativity and achievement in the art world that has ever been. Whether you are an art lover or not, how can you miss out on that?

Mont Saint-Michel is a magical island in Normandy, topped with a medieval abbey that rises dramatically from the sea. With its streets, history, and panoramic views of the bay, Mont Saint-Michel is like something out of a fairy tale and a can’t-miss spot on your first visit to France. Be sure to watch the clock when visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the sun sets, the water will rise, and the island will appear again. Leave before the tide comes in, or be stuck on the island overnight.

France is famous for its wines and rich winemaking tradition, giving wine tasting a spot on our list of what not to miss on your first trip to France. From Bordeaux’s vineyards to Provence’s fields, France is covered with wine regions to explore. Visiting a winery allows you to learn about the process, from grape cultivation to fermentation, and sample a variety of exquisite wines, including reds, whites, and rosés.

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a must-visit destination for your first trip to France. It offers you a blend of coastal scenery, a relaxing atmosphere, and a ton of outdoor activities. Whether you are cruising along the waters or just stopping by for a peak, there are a lot of things to do around the French Riviera, like seaside towns, world-class restaurants, and exciting entertainment options for you to enjoy.

Moving on to the Chateaux of the Loire Valley, it’s an ideal chance to see the French countryside and another not to miss a spot on your first trip to France. There are more castles in this valley than in any other place in France, and they range from medieval fortresses to Renaissance masterpieces. Each château tells a story of kings, queens, and noble families, offering you a chance to step back in time and feel like royalty. It’s great for history buffs and Renaissance lovers, as it’s a journey through France’s royal past.

Finally on our list, and the one we’ve all been waiting for, the Provence lavender fields. Stretching across hills and valleys, these purple fields are the main icon of Provence. Walking the rows of blooming lavender, you’ll have a sensory experience like no other, with the soothing scent filling the air and the sight of endless purple. The Provence lavender fields provide a perfect backdrop for photos and peaceful moments, making it an essential stop to truly appreciate the French countryside.

We hope this guide has helped you when planning your itinerary and gives you an idea of what not to miss on your first trip to France. Whether you are longing for the scent of lavender in the air, looking to take a step back in the past, or drinking your way through the dozens of French vineyards, we are sure this guide has given you a boost of inspiration for how to spend your time. For more help or advice when preparing for your trip, reach out to us at Adventures by Matt for guided assistance.