What Is France Famous For? Top 26 Popular Places & Things in France

France is, rightfully, among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its majestic historical structures, rich culture and culinary delights, France enthrals its visitors like no other. France is mainly known for its wine, fashion and culture. However, there are multiple other factors, like its monuments and architecture, which contribute to its popularity across the globe.

In this article, we will take you through what France is famous for.

France is a well-known tourist spot, known for its historical significance and artistic influences. If you are planning a holiday here, you should know that the currency used here is Euro. As of November, 2022, 1 Euro equals to INR 85.38. Keep this exchange rate in mind while planning your finances in France.

Here is a list of all major tourist attractions that this European country is well-known for:

1. The Eiffel Tower

This 1063-feet tall wrought iron tower is the most famous symbol of France. It is located in Paris and provides a great view of this city. Built in 1889, the Eiffel tower holds the record of being the most-visited tourist attraction in the world. An iconic monument, this is what France is famous for.

2. The Louvre Museum

Located in Paris, the Louvre Museum is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Some of the world's famous paintings, like Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, are displayed in the hallowed halls of this famous landmark. This iconic institution was established in 1793.

3. Notre-Dame de Paris

Located in Paris, it is one of the oldest Gothic Cathedrals in the world. The cathedral was built between 1163 and 1245 AD and was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is one among many things France is known for. This iconic landmark is the site of many historical events, like the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte.

4. The Palace of Versailles

Located in Versailles near Paris, this magnificent palace of King Louis XIV stands testimony to French opulence. Built-in the 17th century, it was designed to dazzle. The beauty of the hall of mirrors, beautiful palace gardens, and royal chapel makes it one of the most famous things in France.

5. Moulin Rouge

This is a very popular tourist destination in France. It is a cabaret located on Boulevard de Cliché in Paris. Established in 1889, Moulin Rouge stands testimony to the many changes that have taken place in the history of art and culture.

6. Disneyland Paris

This famous park is located in Marna la Vallee. It is an enchanting place that is heaven for both kids and grown-ups. Some popular attractions are It's a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, Star Tours, Phantom Manor and Big Thunder Mountain. In addition, the Disney Parade, led by Mickey Mouse, is a spectacular sight to behold.

7. The Mont Saint-Michel

This magical island is located in Normandy in France and houses an abbey. It is a major pilgrimage destination in Europe. In the past, it was a renowned centre of learning. Some of the best minds of Europe benefited from their time at Mont Saint-Michel. In contemporary times, the island's inhabitants include the monks and nuns who reside in the abbey.

8. Loire Valley Chateaux

Located near Paris, the chateaux of Loire Valley look like a place from fairy tales. These chateaux embody the spirit and culture of the Renaissance. Chambord Castle, Chenonceau Castle and Bourges are some specially designed castles that dazzle the visitors.

9. Arc de Triomphe

This famous historical structure in Paris was built between 1806 and 1836 to honour Napoleon Bonaparte's army and commemorate his victory in Austerlitz. The panoramic terrace of this monument offers a stunning view of the twelve avenues and the city of Paris.

10. Provence

Provence is a region located in South-East France and is one of the many things France is known for. The picturesque landscape inspired famous painters like Picasso, Cezanne and Matisse. There are numerous tourist attractions in Provence. You can choose the destinations as per your preference. Whether you decide to take a stroll through Avignon or Les Baus de Provence, do not forget to click pictures.

11. Alsace Villages

If you travel through the region of Alsace, the journey will be etched in your mind forever. As you walk through the exquisitely preserved Colmar and stroll through the narrow cobblestone lanes of Obernai and Ribeauville, you will feel like you are in simpler times. Do not forget to taste the delicious baked items at their local bakeries, cafes and restaurants.

12. The French Alps

The majestic scenery of the French Alps is one of France's most famous things to see. The Alps is the largest mountain range in Europe. The French side of the Alps is strikingly beautiful, with crystal-clear lakes, pristine forests and cascading waterfalls. Adventure-lovers can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter.

13. The Mont Blanc

This is another famous place in France, perfect for mountain lovers. It rises about 4,808 m above sea level, which makes it the highest mountain peak in Western Europe. It is mainly popular for its hiking trails and climbing routes. Tourists find it interesting as many of its sights are easily accessible by train or cable car.

14. The French Riviera

The French Riviera or Côte d’Azur is another popular spot in France, which is a hot-favourite among the tourists. it stretches across the Mediterranean coast. The area is popular for its natural beauty and stunning visuals. Its azure-blue water and the surrounding villages like Cannes, Nice, Eze, and Saint Tropez make this area popular, attracting tourists across the year.

15. The Galeries Lafayette

If you are a fashion lover and enthusiast, you must check out the Galeries Lafayette while visiting France. It is a grand department store in Paris offering products from the upscale fashion brands. Moreover, you can also enjoy food, art, architecture and in-store activities in this area. It therefore offers an overall tourist experience.

16. Père-Lachaise Cemetery

It is the largest cemetery in Paris, and attracts tourists around the year. Some of the most notable scholars and celebrities are buried here. Some of them include Michel Ney, Frédéric Chopin, Édith Piaf, Marcel Proust, Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Sir Richard Wallace, and others. Tourists prefer visiting this place to see the burials of these celebrities.

17. Gourmet Food

A list of what France is famous for would be inadequate if one does not mention its gourmet food. Every region in France has some special dish or the other. Their speciality lies in converting ordinary things into extraordinary. From crème brulee, pain au chocolat, quiche and macarons, France is a foodie’s delight.

18. French Wine

A list of the famous things in France will remain incomplete if one does not mention French wine. France has earned the reputation of being a world leader in fine wine. Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne are some of the prominent wine regions in France. For centuries, winemakers have painstakingly cultivated the art of winemaking. So, if you are in France, do not forget to have a glass of fine wine.

19. Fashion

France is also famous for its fashion. It is one of the four major fashion capitals of the world. In fact, Paris is home to important couturiers. Every renowned designer like Chanel, Givenchy, and Christian Louboutin  have contributed significantly to the French economy.

20. Baguettes and Croissants

Bread is one of the most common things France is known for, and great care is taken to make it. The French baguette is ubiquitous and a staple in French meals.

The country is also famous for its mouth-water croissants and pastries. Nearly every bakery here has a wide assortment of freshly-baked croissants for you to dunk in coffee. The best part is- these are quite cheap.

21. Cannes Film Festival

Founded in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the most famous events in the film industry. This event is attended by renowned celebrities from all over the world. Awards given at this festival are one of the most prestigious ones.

This film festival is held every year in May and is a spectacular event with its red carpet, world-famous celebrities and extensive media coverage.

22. French cheese

Foodies often enjoy different types of cheese, which is a traditional element of French culture.  You can find  huit familles de fromages, or eight families of cheese here, including fresh cheeses, soft cheeses with a washed rind, pressed cheeses, etc. Moreover, you will find cheese dishes like cheese fondue, aligot, and tartiflette in France.

23. Macarons

If you are a dessert-lover, France can satiate your taste with world-class macarons. These are crunchy, sweet-tasting dessert items found in different parts of France. You will find these in multiple flavours like mango, strawberry, chocolate, etc. These are classic French pastries, a must-try in France.

24. Perfume and Cosmetics

France is also famous for its perfume and makeup items besides fashion. You will find some of the most popular perfume brands like Miss Dior, Chanel n°5, Shalimar by Guerlain, and Opium by Yves Saint Laurent. Moreover, France is the home to some of the most popular makeup brands like Lancôme, Guerlain, L'Oréal, NUXE, etc.

25. French Literature and Painting

France is the home to poets, authors and scholars like Voltaire, Molière, Charles Baudelaire, Victor Hugo, Honoré de Balzac, and Marcel Proust. It ranks first when it comes to the number of Nobel Prizes in the field of literature. Moreover, France is the home to some of the most influential painters like Leonardo Da Vinci, Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Michelangelo and Claude Monet. It was the first to start the Impressionist art movement in the 19th century.

26. The Tour de France

This is a popular festival, which attracts tourists to France every year. It was organised for the first time in 1903, and is known for being the most renowned bike riding competition in the world. cyclists come together for this festival and compete for the Tour de trophy. The competition stretches for about 23 days, divided across 21 categories.

France is the most popular tourist destination in the world and cannot disappoint a visitor. If you wish for an action-packed holiday, you can head to the French Alps. In case you are a history lover, there are numerous museums, cathedrals and chateaux.

If you just want to relax on a beach while sipping wine, there are multiple places to choose from. So do not wait any longer. Head over to France for your next vacation.