Choose from 490 Fun Things to Do in France
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Calanque d'En-Vau
Calanque d’En-Vau is one of the many fjord-like inlets along the coastline between Cassis and Marseilles. It’s hard to believe that this wild, untamed nature is right outside a major city, but once there, the hustle and bustle of Marseilles might as well be on the other side of the world. The calanques are a Mediterranean paradise, where the sea has carved its way and created shining white cliffs towering thousands of feet above the azure water. The landscape looks stony and brittle, but all over one can see it come to live. There are gnarled pine trees, dark blue pistachio, wild asparagus and juniper, as well as rare birds nesting high up in the limestone cliffs.
Of course, getting to Calanque d’En-Vau involves hiking along the adventurous hiking trails that follow the coastline to the hidden bays. It is one of the more difficult inlets to get to and requires hiking down the extremely steep inclines. Unsurprisingly, Calanque d’En-Vau is very popular with rock climbers and on a nice day, you can see a huge number of them braving the cliffs. At the bottom, a pretty pebble beach rewards visitors for the effort.
Practical Info
There are regular sailing trips from Cassis as well as Marseilles that take visitors to the calanques with the alternative being a hike through the rocky landscape. You can either hike all the way from Cassis, the closest city to Calanque d’En-Vau, which takes roughly two hours, or take the car to the de la Fontasse car park and walk the remaining 3 kilometers.
Address: Cassis, France
From $ 90
Disney Village
From getting your adrenaline pumping on Space Mountain and flying with Peter Pan, to snapping a selfie with Donald and Mickey, and hunting down all your favorite characters, a visit to Disneyland Paris can be exhausting! Thankfully, there’s also the on-site Disney Village with its myriad of shops and restaurants, where you can take a break from the action and refuel in preparation for the next round of shows and rides.
Of course, the Disney fun doesn’t end just because its lunchtime and many of the restaurants continue the fantastical theme. Tuck into a Tex-Mex buffet at Billy Bob's Country Western Saloon; join the gang for brunch at Café Mickey; picnic in the wilderness at the Rainforest Café; or book an extra special Disney dinner show (don’t worry, there’s old favorites like Starbucks, the Hard Rock Café and McDonalds, too). Once you’ve finished eating, get your credit card ready for a tour of the official Disney souvenir stores, where you can pick up adorable toys, exclusive collectables and Disney-inspired fashions to transform your little ones into real-life pirates and princesses.
Disneyland© Paris
Disneyland© Paris
Practical Info
The Disney Village is located at Disneyland Paris, 32 km east of central Paris, and can be reached by train from the city or shuttle bus from the Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports.
Address: Avenue Paul Séramy, Marne la Vallee, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
Caf e Van Gogh
As the inspiration behind iconic paintings like ‘Starry Night Over the Rhone’, Arles is a prime destination for Van Gogh fans visiting Provence and when it’s time to take a break from
sightseeing, where better to stop for coffee than the Café Van Gogh? Immortalized in Van Gogh’s famous work ‘Café Terrace at Night’, painted in 1888, the lively café stands at the corner of the central Place du Forum and draws a steady stream of tourists to its now-iconic terrace.
The café, originally called ‘Café la Nuit’ but now better known as simply ‘Café Van Gogh’, has now fully embraced its dual role as eatery and tourist attraction. Today, the café façade has
been repainted in bold yellow, mimicking its appearance in Van Gogh’s painting (an effect actually created by the bright café lighting against the darkness of the square) and its terrace
carefully restored to maintain its original layout. Head there in the early morning to avoid the crowds, soak up the buzzing atmosphere at lunch time, or visit after dark for the ultimate Van Gogh-inspired photograph.
Practical Info
Café Van Gogh is located on Place du Forum in central Arles and is open daily from 9am to midnight.
Address: 11 place du Forum, Arles, France
Hours: Daily: 9am- midnight
From $ 116
Garonne River
Flowing down from the Spanish Pyrenees all the way to France’s Atlantic coast, the Garonne River is the most important river of southwestern France. Passing through two major cities—Toulouse and Bordeaux—the Garonne also runs into the Gironde estuary, the largest of its kind in Europe.
The Basics
A boat cruise along the Garonne River is a popular choice for visitors to Bordeaux, and there are numerous options available. Take a sightseeing cruise past riverside landmarks, such as the Basilica of St. Michael, Louis XV's grand Place de la Bourse, and Quai Richelieu; enjoy lunch or a wine tasting on board; or set sail on an evening dinner cruise, with a view of Bordeaux’s illuminated skyline. In Toulouse, sightseeing cruises along the Garonne often link up with the Canal du Midi, offering views of the Chateau d’Eau, Notre-Dame de la Daurade, and the Pont Neuf.
Walking and Segway tours also take in sights along the Garonne River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- River tour options include cruise ships, Viking-style sailboats, jet boats, and canoes.
- Bring warm clothing if traveling on an open-air boat—it can get chilly, especially at night.
- Many boat cruises are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance.
How to Get There
The Garonne River runs for 274 miles (441 kilometers) through southwest France and Northern Catalonia. In Bordeaux, most boat cruises set sail from Quai Richelieu or Cité du Vin. In Toulouse, boats set sail close to the Pont Neuf.
When to Get There
Garonne River cruises in Toulouse run from July to October, while cruises run year-round in Bordeaux. For the most impressive views, opt for a sunset sightseeing cruise or a night cruise.
Gironde Estuary
The Gironde estuary, located where the Garonne and Dordogne rivers meet the Atlantic, is the biggest in Europe and teems with wildlife. The estuary’s nine uninhabited islands and surrounding marshlands are home to a wide variety of migratory birds, including storks, spoonbills, ospreys, and black-winged stilts, while the waters have eels, river lampreys, and wild sturgeon.
Address: Toulouse, France
From $ 24
Gare du Nord
Gare du Nord is one of the six major train stations in Paris, with service to London, Brussels, Amsterdam and other destinations north of the French capital. Strictly speaking, Gare du Nord is the busiest railway station in Europe and the busiest in the world outside Japan with over 700,000 passengers every day for a grand yearly total of 190 million.
Because of the role it plays in Paris’ daily transports, Gare du Nord was featured in many movies, including Ocean’s Twelve, the Bourne Identity and The Da Vinci Code.
The train station itself was built in the 1860s and comprises 36 platforms, including a separate terminal for the Eurostar trains which require security and customs checks. The U-shaped terminal is made out of cast iron and stone, including the statues that decorate the main entrance – each representing destinations outside of France.
Practical Info
Gare du Nord is located on Rue de Maubeuge in Paris’ 10th arrondissement. It is possible to get there by car via Boulevard de Magenta (there is an underground parking on Rue de Compiègne), and by metro, with service on lines 4, 5, and RER B and D. The station concourse is open every day from 4:30am to 1:00am.
Address: 112 Rue de Maubeuge, Paris, Ile-de-France 75010, France
Hours: Daily from 4:30am to 1:00am
From $ 10
Calanques National Park
As Europe's only protected park to contain land, water, and semi-urban areas, Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques) is a mecca for outdoor adventurers. Whether you want to snorkel and sail, kayak and climb, or hike and watch out for wildlife, France's answer to the Garden of Eden has it all.
The Basics
The Calanques — known separately as Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque d'En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Pin, and Calanque de Sugiton — are the park's main attraction. These brilliant rocky promontories are best discovered on a long hike or by kayak — you might even spot daredevils abseiling or cliff diving from the colossal cliffs. Snorkelers and scuba divers are rewarded with a kaleidoscope of marine life during underwater excursions to Monte Cristo, home of the prison that inspired Alexander Dumas' work of classic literature. Travelers without the desire to go underwater can explore the park with ease on an electric bike tour or fishing trip.
If you're short on time in the treasured French Riviera, consider combining sightseeing tours of Marseille and Cassis with a visit to Calanques National Park. Alternatively, opt to spend more time in the park's crystal-clear waters with a two-day scuba diving course.
How To Get to Calanques National Park
Although nestled between popular Marseille and Cassis, Calanques National Park is not easy to access by public transport or without a guide. The best way to visit the national park is by boat from Port de Cassis (cruises depart every 90 minutes daily) or on a day trip from central Marseille. If arriving by car, be aware that the closest beach is about a one-hour hike from available parking lots.
When To Get There
The most popular time to visit the French Riviera is during the summer months of June to September, when temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s F (20s C) and rain is nowhere to be found. However, if you prefer cooler climates and want to miss the crowds, May and June are the ideal months to head to the park.
The Basics
The Calanques — known separately as Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque d'En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Pin, and Calanque de Sugiton — are the park's main attraction. These brilliant rocky promontories are best discovered on a long hike or by kayak — you might even spot daredevils abseiling or cliff diving from the colossal cliffs. Snorkelers and scuba divers are rewarded with a kaleidoscope of marine life during underwater excursions to Monte Cristo, home of the prison that inspired Alexander Dumas' work of classic literature. Travelers without the desire to go underwater can explore the park with ease on an electric bike tour or fishing trip.
If you're short on time in the treasured French Riviera, consider combining sightseeing tours of Marseille and Cassis with a visit to Calanques National Park. Alternatively, opt to spend more time in the park's crystal-clear waters with a two-day scuba diving course.
- Most tours provide round-trip transport from your accommodation in Marseille, Cassis, or the Aix-en-Provence area.
- Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to the park.
- It's best to wear comfortable shoes fit for outdoor exploration.
- Note that camping and motorized water sports are not allowed in the protected area.
How To Get to Calanques National Park
Although nestled between popular Marseille and Cassis, Calanques National Park is not easy to access by public transport or without a guide. The best way to visit the national park is by boat from Port de Cassis (cruises depart every 90 minutes daily) or on a day trip from central Marseille. If arriving by car, be aware that the closest beach is about a one-hour hike from available parking lots.
When To Get There
The most popular time to visit the French Riviera is during the summer months of June to September, when temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s F (20s C) and rain is nowhere to be found. However, if you prefer cooler climates and want to miss the crowds, May and June are the ideal months to head to the park.
Address: Marseille 9, Marseille, France
From $ 52
Gare St Lazare
There are few railway stations more photo-worthy than Gare St Lazare—Paris’ busiest train station. Its iconic architecture, sky-high halls and old-world charm have inspired the likes of impressionist painters Edouard Manet and Calude Monet. With 27 platforms servicing more than 100 million passengers a year, this transport hub will likely be a part of any traveler’s visit to the City of Lights. And while the station’s easy eticket system, pay toilets and well-kept grounds are a delight for travelers, visitors should also plan to spend some time taking in the people, the architecture and the energy that inspired an entire generation of artists.
Practical Info
Gare St Lazare is located in the 8th arrondissement near one of the city’s most popular shopping districts. Approximately 1,600 trains depart the station daily.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 87
Camargue
Located in southwest Provence, the Camargue is one of France’s wildest and most scenic landscapes. Protected as a regional natural park, the expanse of wetlands, beaches, salt pans, and rice paddies is known for its herds of white Camargue horses and Camargue bulls, all tended to by local gardians (cowboys).
The Basics
Most visitors choose to explore the Camargue on a day trip from towns like Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, or on a shore excursion from the Mediterranean port of Marseille. A Camargue tour typically takes in regional highlights such as the Camargue capital of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the medieval port town of Aigues Mortes, the seaside resort of Le Grau-du-Roi, and the Provencal village of Arles, known for its connections with Van Gogh. The UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and visitors can also enjoy a cruise along the Petit Rhône river, a canoeing excursion around the marshes, or an off-road jeep tour along the coast.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring mosquito repellent—the Camargue wetlands are known for their mosquitoes, especially during in summer and fall.
- Tourist information offices in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and Aigues-Mortes provide detailed maps of the Parc Naturel de Camargue.
- Much of the Camargue is only accessible by 4WD vehicle or on horseback.
How to Get There
The Camargue is located along France’s Mediterranean coast between Montpellier and Marseille. Public transport to the Camargue is limited, and most visitors opt to explore the region either by private vehicle or as part of a guided tour. It’s about a one-hour drive from Avignon to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and the closest international airport is in Nîmes.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Camargue is between March and October, the season of the jeu taurin (non-violent bullfighting), when many area villages host traditional festivals and races. During peak summer season (July and August), temperatures can reach over 86°F (30°C) and mosquitoes can be a pain, so plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler.
Wildlife Watching in the Camargue
In addition to the famous white horses and black bulls, the Camargue is home to some of France’s most diverse bird life, with more than 400 different species. At Pont de Gau Ornithological Park, a top destination for bird watching, you might also spot egrets, ibises, kingfishers, goldcrests, and birds of prey, as well as ducks, swans, and some of the region’s 10,000-plus flamingos.
Address: Provence, France
From $ 81
Avenue des Champs-Elys ees
The Arc de Triomphe looks down upon the grand tree-lined boulevard that is Avenue des Champs-Elysées: one of Paris’ most memorable sights and one of the world’s most famous avenues. It’s not just the striking architecture that captivates visitors—the shopping street is lined with designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and fine restaurants.
The Basics
No Paris sightseeing tour is complete without visiting Avenue des Champs-Elysées, and the best way to soak up the atmosphere is on foot. Opt for a guided small-group or private walking tour, admire the illuminations on an evening city excursion, or visit independently on a Paris hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Alternatively, discover Paris’ most beautiful boulevard on a bike or Segway tour, a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride, or from the passenger seat of a classic French 2CV car.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—it takes at least 30 minutes to walk from one end of the boulevard to the other.
- Paris’ main tourist information center is located along the Champs-Elysées, close to the Arc de Triomphe.
- The Champs-Elysées is wheelchair accessible, as are many of the shops and restaurants along the boulevard.
How to Get There
Avenue des Champs-Elysées stretches 1.3 miles (2 km) through the heart of Paris’ 8th arrondissement, from the Arc de Triomphe on Place Charles de Gaulle all the way to Place de la Concorde on the banks of the Seine River. Metro stations located along the Champs-Elysées include (from north to south) Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile (Line 1), George V (Line 1), Franklin Roosevelt (lines 1 and 9), Champs Elysees-Clemenceau (lines 1 and 13), and Concorde (lines 1, 8, and 12).
When to Get There
As one of Paris’ busiest thoroughfares, the Champs-Elysées attracts crowds at all hours. Shoppers wanting to dodge the crush are advised to avoid weekends and holidays, while those driving should stay away from the morning and evening rush hours. The most dazzling views are found after dark, when the boulevard is spectacularly illuminated.
The Champs-Elysées is also an integral part of Parisian celebrations, and some of the most memorable visits are timed to see the incredible Christmas light displays, the annual Bastille Day military parade, or the grand finish of the Tour de France.
Paris Monuments Along the Champs-Elysées
A great number of Paris highlights are located on and around the Champs-Elysées, starting with the imposing Arc de Triomphe. After taking in the views from the 19th-century monument, stroll past Charles De Gaulle’s statue, Grand Palais, and Petit Palais to Place de la Concorde, with its beautiful fountains and Egyptian obelisk. For an extended tour, continue through the idyllic Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) along the right bank of the Seine River until you reach the Louvre museum, Palais Royal, and the Pont des Arts pedestrian bridge that crosses the Seine.
Address: Avenue des Champs-Elysées, Paris 75008, France
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Admission: Free
From $ 13
Canal St-Martin
The streets of Paris are filled with romance and excitement, but for travelers looking to escape the hustle of the city, a wander along the scenic Canal St-Marin, located near the River Seine, offers a welcome respite from the typical urban energy.
Visitors can stroll along the picturesque waterway where quaint storefronts and tiny homes nod to another era. Travelers can relax at one of the numerous café tables and sip on glasses of fine wine under a quiet city sky or float along the waterway in one of the city’s famous riverboats. Travelers agree that some of the best shopping is to be had along Canal St-Martin, making it an ideal place to spend a late afternoon in the open air.
Practical Info
The Canal is accessible using the Paris Metro. The closest stations are Stalingrad, Republique, Bastille, Jaures, Oberkampf, Goncourt, Richard-Lenoir, and Quuai de la Rapee.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 23
Deauville
Founded by Napoleon’s half-brother on the Normandy coast in 1861, the chic seaside town of Deauville (pronounced “Dovil”) has been a summer playground for the French elite, including Yves Saint Laurent, ever since the late 19th century. Full of designer boutiques and five-star hotels, manicured gardens and ritzy restaurants, Deauville is the place for Parisians to see and be seen in the summer.
Known in France for its starring part in Proust’s “In Search of Lost Time,” Deauville is in the heart of the Parisian Riviera and boasts the Grand Casino, Deauville-La Touques racetrack and the American Film Festival in the first week of September every year. Unlike at Cannes’, public admission is available for many of the previews at Deauville.
Very much a resort town, Deauville’s population of 4,100 heavily depends on tourism. Twinned with the town of Trouville right next door, visitors often hop over to Trouville by simply wandering over the pont des Belges bridge, which is just east of the train and bus stations in Deauville.
Practical Info
Deauville is about a two-hour drive west from Paris, and there are also regular TER trains from Paris to the Trouville-Deauville train station.
Address: Deauville, France
From $ 109
Caf e de Flore
As one of the most famous cafés in Paris, Café de Flore requires very little presentation. This establishment is indeed nothing short of legendary, thanks to the legacy left by some of its most prestigious customers – lovebirds Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre, along with our contemporary intelligentsia and trendsetters. Besides its famous clientele, the café is also noted for its sunny and flowery terrace; in fact, getting coffee at Café de Flore is regarded as one of the most quintessentially Parisian things visitors can do.
Café de Flore is not only illustrious because of its patrons; it’s also one of the longest-running coffeehouses in Paris, having first opened its doors in the 1880s during the Third Republic. It was named after a sculpture of the Roman goddess of flowers, Flora.
Practical Info
Café de Flore is located on Boulevard Saint-Germain in Paris. It is not advised to get to the Café de Flore house by car as parking is scarce and complicated; however, Saint Germain des Prés, Mabillon, and Saint-Sulpice stations are all within a 10-minute walk. The coffeehouse is open every day from 7:30am to 1:30am non-stop.
Address: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, Ile-de-France 75006, France
Hours: Every day from 7:30am to 1:30am
From $ 58
Cannes Cruise Port
Enjoying a picturesque position on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, the Cannes cruise port is a gateway to the cinematic glamour of Cannes and the rest of the beautiful French Riviera. Whether you're exploring the pretty town of Cannes or heading for glitzy enclaves such as Monte Carlo, St Tropez, or Eze, disembarking your cruise ship at the Cannes port provides a wealth of shore excursion options.
The Basics
If you're visiting outside of Cannes Film Festival, famed throughout France, Europe, and the world, Cannes is still a rewarding place to spend the day. Cannes city tours allow cruisers to enjoy a taste of Hollywood glamour at the Film Festival Palace (Palais des Festivals), where it's possible to pose on the famous red carpet; stroll the Boulevard de la Croisette to gaze into the windows of designer boutiques; and get lost in Le Suquet, the cityís historic center.
Travelers short on time can take advantage of Cannes shore excursions that head further afield to showcase the entire French Riviera. Typically covered are the medieval village of Eze, which boasts cobbled streets, the Fragonard perfume factory, and views of the Cote d'Azur, and Monaco, whose delights include the Princeís Palace, Monaco Cathedral, and the affluent casino of Monte Carlo. Other Cannes excursions tick off historic Antibes, where multi-million dollar yachts dock in Billionaire's Quay; the charming ProvenÁal village of St Paul de Vence; Grasse, whose lavender fields burst into bloom during summer; and Nice, whose Old Town and Cimiez neighborhood ooze tradition.
How to Get to Cannes from Cannes Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock in the bay before small tenders ferry passengers to Le Vieux Port (the Old Port). From here it's a short walk to the city center, where youíll find the Quai Laubeuf OUIBUS bus station and the Marine Railway Station (Gare Maritime). The train can be taken to Monaco.
Port Information
French is the main language in Cannes, but due to an annual influx of tourists for the film festival, many locals speak English. The currency is the euro, and many ATMs service the cruise port.
The Basics
If you're visiting outside of Cannes Film Festival, famed throughout France, Europe, and the world, Cannes is still a rewarding place to spend the day. Cannes city tours allow cruisers to enjoy a taste of Hollywood glamour at the Film Festival Palace (Palais des Festivals), where it's possible to pose on the famous red carpet; stroll the Boulevard de la Croisette to gaze into the windows of designer boutiques; and get lost in Le Suquet, the cityís historic center.
Travelers short on time can take advantage of Cannes shore excursions that head further afield to showcase the entire French Riviera. Typically covered are the medieval village of Eze, which boasts cobbled streets, the Fragonard perfume factory, and views of the Cote d'Azur, and Monaco, whose delights include the Princeís Palace, Monaco Cathedral, and the affluent casino of Monte Carlo. Other Cannes excursions tick off historic Antibes, where multi-million dollar yachts dock in Billionaire's Quay; the charming ProvenÁal village of St Paul de Vence; Grasse, whose lavender fields burst into bloom during summer; and Nice, whose Old Town and Cimiez neighborhood ooze tradition.
- Nearly all shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at Cannes cruise port.
- Cannes shore excursion tours generally range from five to nine hours including transportation times.
- Private tours allow you to customize your itinerary and handpick French Riviera highlights.
How to Get to Cannes from Cannes Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock in the bay before small tenders ferry passengers to Le Vieux Port (the Old Port). From here it's a short walk to the city center, where youíll find the Quai Laubeuf OUIBUS bus station and the Marine Railway Station (Gare Maritime). The train can be taken to Monaco.
Port Information
French is the main language in Cannes, but due to an annual influx of tourists for the film festival, many locals speak English. The currency is the euro, and many ATMs service the cruise port.
Address: Services Plaisance et Commerce, Port de Cannes, Cannes, Cote d'Azur 06400, France
From $ 60
Delville Wood Cemetery
The World War I struggle for the strategic ground of Delville Wood lying at the heart of the Somme battlefields took place between Commonwealth and German soldiers during July and September 1916. During this time a number of fierce battles were fought and even though the Commonwealth troops ultimately won through, there was huge loss of life on both sides. Delville Wood Cemetery at Longueval commemorates the heroism of 5,523 Commonwealth dead, lying at peace in a memorial designed by British architect Sir Herbert Baker just post-war, with an entrance arch topped by a bronze equestrian sculpture by Alfred Turner. A huge percentage of the graves at Delville Wood are unmarked as many of the fallen were reburied there after the Armistice in 1918.
Right across the road is the South Africa (Delville Wood) National Memorial, also built by Sir Herbert Baker and honoring the South African military personnel who were killed in World War I. With around 229,000 soldiers fighting on the Western Front, the SA dead at Delville Wood numbered around 10,000 and their names are inscribed in a memorial book in the hexagonal-shaped Delville Wood Museum, built to salute all South African troops who have died in combat across the world.
Practical Info
Both cemeteries are found in Longueval, 40 km (25 miles) south of Arras in the Pas-de-Calais. The Delville Wood Museum is open early Feb–early Apr, mid-Oct–late Nov Tue–Sun 10am–4pm; early Apr–mid-Oct Tue–Sun 10am–5.30pm.
Address: Route de Ginchy, Longueval, France
From $ 230
Canadian War Cemetery
The Juno Beach Center is Normandy's only Canadian museum, but there are two locations where Canada's heroes from the Battle of Normandy have been laid to rest: The Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, and the Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery. The former honors soldiers from earlier in the battle – on and just after D-Day - while the former is for soldiers who gave their lives later on.
Like many of Normandy's WWII battle sites and memorials, Bény-sur-Mer is about a half-hour from Bayeux, which many visitors make as their base from which to explore the region. Bretteville-sur-Laize is about 40 minutes away, just behind Caen. Both of them are considered in the “opposite” direction from most of the most important sites, and so can be ignored by those on a fast-track tour of Normandy. But both sites deserve to be given their due.
Both cemeteries are technically on Canadian territory, as France granted the lands to Canada in perpetuity so that they could have a permanent place to bury their heroes. The grounds are maintained by Veterans Affairs Canada.
At the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery there are over 2,000 grave sites, including one of a Frenchman who fought alongside Canadian soldiers and had no next of kin to claim his body. And at the Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery are 2,700 graves. They are solemn places meant to remember the fallen; for learning about Canada's role in the Battle of Normandy, head to the Juno Beach Center.
Address: route de Reviers, Reviers 14470, France
From $ 81
Cape Canaille
Soaring 394 meters over the beaches of Cassis, Cape Canaille is France’s highest sea cliff and it’s a dramatic sight, with its steep grey and ochre colored cliffs jutting out into the ocean. Located between La Citotat and Cassis on the Mediterranean coast, the rugged headland has long drawn visitors from both towns, and offers spectacular views that span the glittering Cote d’Azur, the Calanques and the Gulf of Cassis.
The easiest way to take in the views is to follow the 15km ‘Route des Crêtes’, a dizzying serpentine road that curls its way along the coastal cliffs and climbs to the highest point – head there at sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views. Alternatively, adventurous travelers will find ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing.
Practical Info
Cape Canaille is located along the Cote d’Azur, between the towns of Cassis and La Ciotat.
Address: Cape Canaille, Bouches-du-Rhône, France
From $ 75
Australian Corps Memorial Park
Laid out by the Australian government in 1998 to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Hamel, the Australian Memorial commemorates the 100,000 Australians who served in the Australian Corps in France during World War I. The Allies were having a rather difficult time fighting the German troops, and General Sir John Monash, Commander of the Australian Corps, was convinced that the element of surprise and a combination of several arms was their only hope at winning this bloody battle. In the wee hours of July 4, he successfully carried out a three-mile-wide attack joining infantry, tanks, artillery and air support in just 90 minutes. The Australian troops remained in this area for another five weeks, preparing the launch of the next Allied operation that would push German troops even further east and mark the beginning of the end of World War I.
The trenches used during the Battle of Hamel were left in place after the war and have since been incorporated into the memorial site to honor the memory of those who fought here. The memorial itself covers three blocks of curved granite set in a semi-circle, with the Australian Forces badge on the center block. A speech by Georges Clémenceau is inscribed on the left and right blocks, celebrating the Australian implication in the taking of Hamel.
Practical Info
Australian Corps Memorial Park is located east of the D71 in Le Hamel. It can be reached from Paris via route A1, D934 and D71 in an hour and a half. Australian Corps Memorial Park is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. between April 1 and October 31, and until 4 p.m. the rest of the year.
Address: Le Hamel, France
From $ 199
Au Lapin Agile
One of Paris’s most beloved cabarets, Au Lapin Agile has been delighting audiences in Montmartre for decades. The title translates to “The Nimble Rabbit” from French, originating from a painting of a rabbit jumping out of a hot frying pan. The small theater was once a hotspot for bohemian Parisian artists such as Picasso, Modigliani, Toulouse-Latrec, and Utrillo. Picasso helped to make the space famous with his 1905 painting of “At the Lapin Agile.”
The iconic pink cottage cabaret drew in some of Paris’s most eccentric characters, many of which carved their names into the original wooden tables that still remain today. Having opened in 1860, the Paris institution has long been a source of evening revelry, good food and drink, and French song and dance performance. It continues to be an authentic venue for all three today.
Practical Info
Au Lapin Agile is located at at 22 Rue des Saules in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, not far from the Sacre Couer Basilica. It is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 pm to 1 am, and is closed on Mondays. The €24 entry fee includes a glass of house wine. The nearest metro station is Lamarck-Caulaincourt.
Address: 22 Rue des Saules, Paris 75018, France
Admission: €24
From $ 18
Disneyland Paris
From riding Space Mountain to flying with Peter Pan and snapping a selfie with Mickey Mouse, few theme parks serve up as much fairy-tale magic as Disneyland. With some 14 million annual visitors, Disneyland Paris is Europe’s biggest and busiest theme park, boasting adrenaline-fueled rides, state-of-the-art movie sets, and spectacular shows and parades that make it a fantasyland for kids and adults alike.
The Basics
Two theme parks make up Disneyland Paris—the Disneyland Park and the Walt Disney Studios Park—and a variety of ticket options are available. Choose from single-day and multi-day passes, hopper tickets that allow full-access to both parks, and FASTPASS® tickets that offer skip-the-line entrance to the most popular rides and attractions. It’s impossible to see everything on a day tour, so if you only have a one-day pass, plan your schedule carefully to ensure you don’t miss the shows, parades, and rides that most interest you. To ensure a hassle-free vacation, pre-book a one-way or round-trip transfer to Disneyland Resort Paris from your Paris hotel or Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared to do lots of walking.
- Be prepared to wait in line for up to two hours for popular rides at peak times, especially in the busiest months of July and August.
- Disneyland Paris is wheelchair accessible, priority access is offered to many rides and attractions, and full accessibility maps are available.
- Wheelchairs, strollers, and pushchairs are available for rent inside the park.
- Families with young kids can take advantage of Baby Switch, which allows one parent to wait with younger children, without having to get back in line for their turn.
- Budget travelers can save on costs by bringing a refillable water bottle (drinking water fountains are located around the park), a packed lunch, and snacks—eating out in the Disney Village can be pricey.
How to Get There
Disneyland Paris is located 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of Paris in Marne-la-Vallée. The RER A train from central Paris takes about 40 minutes to reach the Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station, and regular shuttle buses run to and from the Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports. Private transfers and taxis typically take about an hour, depending on traffic.
When to Get There
Disneyland Paris is open year-round, and most attractions, shows, and parades run even in low season. The busiest and most crowded times are the summer and Christmas holidays, when lines are long but opening hours are extended. Those on a budget can find deals by visiting in the low season (November to March) or midweek rather than on weekends, but be aware that there will be fewer shows. For an extra dose of Disney magic, visit during special events such as Halloween, Bonfire Night (early November), New Year’s Eve, or Christmas.
Must-Do Experiences at Disneyland Paris
At Disneyland Park, the most popular rides include Big Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain: Mission 2, Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril, and Pirates of the Caribbean. The top rides at Walt Disney Studios Park are Ratatouille: The Ride, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, and Flying Carpets Over Agrabah. Other must-do experiences include meet-and-greets with Disney characters, the Disney parades, a ride on the Disneyland Railroad, and the chance to have dinner with Mickey Mouse.
Address: Marne-la-Vallée 77777, France
Hours: Open daily, 10am - 6pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Calanque de Sormiou
The calanques are narrow and steep inlets along the limestone coast of southern France, the most impressive ones being located along the little stretch of coastline between Marseilles and Cassis. They are romantic, wild and, being surrounded by huge cliffs, often protrude fjord-like into the landscape. While many calanques require hours of hiking or kayaking to reach, the Calanque de Sormiou is more easily accessible and still provides a true visual spectacle for visitors.
After a 15 minute drive or 45 minute walk from the main road down the hills, a sandy beach awaits next to the bright blue Mediterranean water. A couple weekend homes dot the landscape and then there is Le Château, the modest but immensely popular bouillabaisse restaurant that requires a phone reservation well ahead of time to snag a seat.
As sparse as the landscape might appear, Sormiou actually serves as a habitat for a rich flora and fauna. Over 900 plants grow here and birdwatchers will find many rare birds nesting in the steep cliffs. Swimming and sunbathing is popular, but the area is also crossed by numerous hiking trails, some more demanding than others, and the little bay is also a popular destination for visitors arriving by boat.
Practical Info
By car, Calanque de Sormiou can be reached in about 30 minutes from Marseilles and the road is very well signposted. However, there is only a small parking area available at the bottom of the calanque and the area is closed off to cars during the busy high season and on weekends. This is why many visitors decide to arrive either by boat or by taking public transportation and hiking in. Take the metro line 2 to Rond-Pont du Prado, followed by bus number 23 to Sormiou. From there, it’s a 45 minute hike to the bottom.
Address: France
From $ 56