Top things to never miss in France

Halloween, all year round

No need to use Halloween as an excuse to walk through one of the many cemeteries in the city. Those of Père-Lachaise (the most visited in the world), Montparnasse and Montmartre are all worth the journey. All are known for being the final resting spots for celebrities from all walks of life. Art lovers will feel spoiled by the sight of headstones that rival in boldness and grandeur. If you’re unable to find the grave of the person you’re looking for don’t hesitate to ask the staff on site, they will be happy to tell you which path to follow.

Make it can’t miss:

Make sure you have a few hours to wander the labyrinthine streets, and bring along a light snack – if you’re comfortable picnicking in a cemetery!  

Who says Paris says...Versailles!

Put yourself in the shoes of an aristocrat for a day! The visit to Versailles is worth its weight in gold, but it’s important to plan the day accordingly. The tickets we purchased in advance on the internet weren’t much help – the line of people who already bought tickets was longer than the one with visitors who didn’t. Be patient and don’t lose hope, because what you see inside will wow you. With a total area of 815 hectares, the castle contains a variety of ponds, fountains, statues, gardens, kiosks, restaurants and famous landmarks. If after exploring it all you have some time, a ride on the Grand Canal in a gondola is a must!

Make it can’t miss:

Arrive early, and rent a bike on site to maximize your trip.

The Montparnasse Tower, the unpopular skyscraper

The Montparnasse Tower is strongly criticized for its disproportionate height of 210 meters, but it ironically has the only point of view that allows you to admire the Eiffel Tower in its full glory. Less crowded than the famous Iron Lady, the Montparnasse Tower houses a permanent exhibition, two restaurants, a shop and a rooftop terrace with a 360 degree view.

Make it can’t miss:

It’s hard to predict, but try and pick a day where the weather is clear – you will be able to see the breathtaking 40km radius of a view. If you hate elevators, your uneasiness will be short lived – you go up all 59 floors in just 38 seconds!

Nice the beautiful

Take the time to walk around Nice and enjoy its beautiful scenery. You can walk for hours, then cool down at the Promenade du Paillon with water droplets from sprinklers embedded in the ground. Get lost in the pleasant pedestrian side streets of Old Nice, admire the statues in Place Massena, savour the socca (a dish made of chickpea flour), and enjoy a swim in one of the many pebbled beaches. 

Make it can’t miss:

Enjoy a splendid view of the city from the top of Castle Hill (accessible on foot or by elevator, for free).

Wear water shoes for swimming. Walking barefoot on pebbles is painful!

An ocean of possibilities

A trip on the Visiobulle (a boat with a glass paneled bottom to watch the fish from) is a favourite activity among all ages. It’s rare that you can observe the sea floor without first donning a mask, fins, and a wetsuit.  The funny canary yellow boat gives you fantastic access to the heart of the Mediterranean, all while staying dry. If you're lucky, you may even be able to marvel at the grace of a jellyfish rippling in the middle of a school of silver-reflecting fish.

Make it can’t miss:

If you get the chance, position yourself in the ship's hold to reserve the best location.

Thrills guaranteed

You have to drive towards the Verdon Gorge in the French Alps to understand what the term “evil heart” means. The view is breathtaking. Motorcyclists perform daring maneuvers (if not suicidal!) and the road winds along the mountainside. Turn left, then right, then left and right again ... and so on until nausea ensues!  Once there, wander on the Chaulière Bridge, the highest bridge in Europe used for bungee jumping.

Make it can’t miss:

Bring Gravol – it will be your greatest ally on the winding road.

Finish your day by renting a kayak and drifting slowly over the clear waters of the Verdon, which are a hypnotic color ranging from frosted blue to jade green.

The city with more tourists than residents

St-Paul-de-Vence is a walled commune where you feel like you’re reliving the medieval era. Charming at first sight, you are touched by each work of art, every house, every stone. Even the cemetery has a vibe that calls to you to go back. The only downside: the number of tourists per square metre greatly exceeds the capacity of its narrow, flower-lined streets.

Make it can’t miss:

Looking for the perfect gift for a loved one? You are in the right place! St-Paul-de-Vence is a mecca for art galleries and dozens of well-established designers. You can also visit the workshops of most of them.

La dolce vita!

Taking the ferry to Corsica is an experience in itself. It takes about 5 and half hours from Nice; the crossing is a good compromise between a trek on the water and a real cruise.

Make it can’t miss:

Enjoy the long hours of relaxation you have before you. Arm yourself with a good book and bask in the sun in one of the many sun loungers available. Unwind!

The best advice I've received:

• Have no expectations, or as little as possible.
• Get a new SIM card for your cell phone when you get to your destination. Packages in France are affordable and your trip will be even more enjoyable.
• Accept the unexpected as part of the traveller's experience, because you can’t escape it. And remember that these are the best stories to bring back!