France is a country that captivates the hearts of millions of travelers every year. Nothing better than to bask in the amazing, whether it’s the iconic Eiffel Tower or the quaint alleyways of Montmartre. You may be wondering what to include in your itinerary if you’re thinking of taking a vacation to this magical place. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve compiled a list of the five best experiences to add to your France tour.

Explore the Louvre Museum

A French trip would never be the same without visiting the world-famous Louvre Museum, one of the largest and most famous art museums globally. At the heart of the city, Paris, the Louvre houses an unrivaled treasure of over 35,000 masterpieces of art, from ancient civilizations to 19th-century masterpieces. Among its most famous treasures are Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the graceful Venus de Milo, and Eugène Delacroix’s dramatic Liberty Leading the People.

Even if you’re not an experienced art lover, the museum’s beautiful architecture—such as the sleek glass pyramid and old palace below—is an eye treat. Its wide halls and varied exhibitions make it an interesting place to visit for anyone.

For a finishing touch to your trip, take a guided tour. Trained guides not only assist with handling the enormous size of the museum but also provide insight into the history behind the artwork, providing perspective and appreciation during your visit.

Discover the Charm of Provence

The southeast French area of Provence is well-known for its stunning scenery, charming towns, and delectable cuisine. From the vibrant lavender fields to the picturesque hilltop towns, there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights to explore.

One of the best experiences of Provence can be obtained if one goes on an organized tour.

Many tours of France include stops in popular destinations like Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and the Luberon Valley. These tours often include visits to local markets, wine tastings, and opportunities to sample regional specialties like bouillabaisse and ratatouille.

Witness the Grandeur of Versailles

An extravagant tribute to the French monarchy’s excesses and unbridled power is the Palace of Versailles.  Ordered by King Louis XIV in the 17th century, this architectural wonder boasts stunning Baroque design, gold-plated interiors, and breathtaking artwork that attest to the pomp of the past.

One of the highlights of the tour is the Hall of Mirrors, a shimmering gallery where treaties were traditionally signed, complete with mirrored walls and crystal chandeliers. In visiting lavishly decorated royal apartments and staterooms, you’ll see firsthand the lavish lifestyles of French royalty.

The expansive gardens of Versailles are equally impressive outside the chateau. Consisting of nearly 2,000 acres, they have precision-shorn hedges, beautiful statues, musical fountains, and meanderDng sidewalks that offer a peaceful retreat. A trip to Versailles is a foray back into France’s royal past.

Savor the Flavors of French Cuisine

France is a paradise of food, renowned for its culinary culture and world-famous cuisine. Whether you’re savoring a crispy croissant straight out of a Parisian bakery, having a hearty cassoulet in Toulouse, or tasting dainty macarons in a quaint patisserie, French food is an experience to cherish for all palates.

Each region has a specialty—Provence’s bouillabaisse, Burgundy’s coq au vin, and Brittany’s crêpes—so discovering food is part of your journey. Eating at local bistros or street markets is the way to go to get real flavors and experience the local culture.

For an even richer experience, take part in a French cooking school. With expert chefs as instructors, you acquire the tried-and-tested methods and hacks behind classic dishes through experiential learning. You enjoy eating your masterpiece dishes, but you’ll also be able to take recipes and expertise back home to recapture the magic in your kitchen.

Cruise Along the Seine River

The most exciting way to absorb Paris’ beauty and charm is on a Seine River cruise. Since the river cuts across the city, you get to drive past Paris’ most famous sights along the way, including the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, and the Musée d’Orsay. While floating on a boat, you will have panoramic views alongside being exposed to the city in a new and effortless way.

Or spending a daylong sightseeing cruise or an evening dinner cruise, the cruise is a serene retreat from street-level noise. On most cruises, you will have live or tape narration in many different languages that animate your tour by describing fascinating fact and legend about monuments, bridges, and localities passing through your tour district.

With open-air decks and glass-roofed boats, these cruises also offer ideal photo opportunities, particularly as the city lights twinkle on the water at night.

Conclusion

There are countless chances to have life-changing experiences in France. This lovely tiny place has plenty to offer everyone, whether you’re a foodie, history buff, artist, or just interested in local culture. By adding these five experiences to your France tour itinerary, you’ll be sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.