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.

97. Adventure Park Massignac

Packed with exciting adventures for children of all ages – from trampolines and bungee-jumping to rope swings and treetop adventures – the Adventure Park Massignac in the Charente department, southwest France is the ideal place for the little ones to let off steam. Safety is very important; all children are attached to a specially-designed harness, making it impossible for them to fall off zip files or rope walks, so that parents can relax and enjoy the day out too.

Massignac is approximately 50 km north east of Angoulême (closest airport: Angoulême-Cognac). Car rental is advised.

98. Grasse (Cannes)

Best known as the backdrop for Patrick Süßkind`s novel “Perfume”, the town of Grasse in the south east of France (Alpes-Maritimes department) has been the capital town of perfume worldwide for centuries. 20 km inland from Cannes and 40 km from Nice, it is ideal for a day trip inland and makes a welcome change from the bustle and activity of the Côte d’Azur. The “Parfumerie Fragonard” featured in “Perfume” is on the bus route from the railway station. Grasse is also a great place to buy scented gifts of almost every variety.

The train from Cannes to Grasse takes approximately 1 hour. Buses run regularly to the town center.

99. La Bresse

The largest area in north eastern France for skiing and winter sports, La Bresse lies at the heart of the Natural Park “Ballons des Vosges”. With a wide range of additional attractions for children of all ages – bungee jumping, ice-skating, amusement park, to name but a few – and child care options as well, it is ideal for a family winter holiday.

La Bresse is situated 120 km north east of Nancy; trains run directly and take around 2 ½ hours.

100. Musée des Vampires et Monstres de l’Imaginaire (Paris)

This somewhat eccentric private collection of objects related to vampires, monsters and legendary beings is situated 13 km outside Paris, accessible by metro from the Gare du Nord in under half an hour (exit: “Mairie des Lilas” or “Porte des Lilas”). The museum is located on the Rue Jules David; the entrance is at the back, across a little courtyard, and is symbolically painted red and black. Inside, vampire and monster lovers can ponder over books, pictures and vampire relics to their heart’s content.

A great day trip out of the city center for those who like it creepy, entrance to the “Museum of Vampires and Imaginary Monsters” is by telephone appointment only.

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