France is the number one tourist destination worldwide, and it is not difficult to see why. Quite apart from the diversity of its national monuments – many but by no means all of which are to be found in the capital city of Paris – it offers culture, tradition, fascinating history, romance and charm as well as fantastic cooking and first-rate wines.

It is interesting to note, when you are visiting France, that the French are extraordinarily nonchalant about the beauties and treasures in their wonderful country, almost as if they took them for granted. They live, eat and sleep with them in a completely different way to the rest of the world. For that reason, it is often difficult to find information about the lesser-known gems of antiquity or beauty hidden away in the remoter regions of France. This list of the best things to do in France will shed light, not only on the attractions and monuments with which everyone is acquainted, but on other equally beautiful or significant attractions which are all but unknown.

82. L’Île de Porquerolles (Côte d’Azur)

An idyllic holiday resort for the whole family, the Island of Porquerolles (privately owned until 1971 by François Joseph Fournier, who had bought it as a gift for his wife), is a well-kept French secret. Lying just off the coast of the Riviera between Toulon and St. Tropez and only 7 km long by 3 km wide, it was bought by the state in 1971 and fiercely protected against overdevelopment. Sparkling turquoise water edged by white sand and pine and eucalyptus trees are its hallmark. For fishing, bathing, walking and sailing, the Île de Porquerolles is perfect.

The largest of the four Hyères islands, the island of Porquerolles can be reached by ferry from the Giens peninsula (15 minutes). No vehicles are allowed on the island.

83. Georges Pompidou Center (Paris)

Located in the 4th arrondissement in Paris, the George Pompidou Centre – which opened in 1977 – is a large and modern complex in the Beaubourg region which houses the “National Museum of Modern Art, an enormous public library and the IRCAM center for music and acoustics. Very popular among tourists, the Georges Pompidou Center attracts around 5 million visitors annually.

84. Sacré Coeur Basilica (Paris)

Constructed in the years between 1875 and 1914 und funded entirely by donations, this beautiful Catholic basilica on the summit of the butte of Montmartre is famed for its pure white façade (caused by the property of the stone travertine – from which it is built – to exude calcite) and its extravagant Byzantine design. The Basilica can only be entered by 300 steps and there is no elevator, so visitors should be fit.

Sacré Coeur is 15 minutes by metro from the Gare du Nord (exit: Basilica Sacré Coeur).

Source: https://www.jenreviews.com/best-things-to-do-in-france/