For many, vacation equates to laying low and relaxing. But for others, it means embarking on exhilarating adventures. And in France, both easygoing and active travelers will find something suited to their tastes. If you’re an adrenaline seeker on the hunt to move and groove during your trip to France, we’re here to help. Have your breath stolen on a hike in the Pyrénées. Kayak through the blue waters off the coast of Corsica. Hold on tight as you zipline through the forest near Annecy. No matter your pick, you’re sure to get your heart rate up. From hiking to surfing, snow shoeing to skiing, we compiled the best adventurous activities in France.
Category : France
Experiences in France for Every Type of Traveler in 2026
Planning a trip to France and looking for activities beyond typical walking tours and sightseeing? French Side Travel is launching several exciting new experiences for 2026 that are thoughtfully designed to suit every type of traveler.
Whether you’re a foodie, a creative spirit, an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or traveling as a family, we’ve curated a selection of immersive experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Each one is crafted to help you discover France in a more personal, memorable way.
Where to Spend Christmas in France
Snuggled up under the blankets in front of the Christmas tree at home is a great way to spend Christmas. But an even better way to experience the holiday season is discovering yuletide magic in France. Each region has its own special traditions and events, and no matter your interests, Christmas in France is a fantasy. From sipping hot chocolate at the Christmas markets or admiring the lights adorning historic castles, France transforms into an even more magical destination during the winter season. Both Paris and the French Alps are popular choices for the Christmas season, but these destinations are only the beginning. From the Loire Valley to Alsace, here are our favorite places to spend Christmas in France as well as festive activities to liven your stay.
A Tale of Two Winters: Paris and the French Alps
In Paris, rainy, windswept days feel warmer with chocolat chaud in iconic cafés and chestnuts roasting at the marchés de Noël. Meanwhile, in the French Alps, vacationers trade their skis for vin chaud by the fire after a day on the slopes, settling into their cozy chalets. Across the country, countless French holiday traditions await!
11 French Holiday Traditions You Haven’t Heard Of
The calendar flips to December, and in many countries, families are putting up the tree, sipping hot chocolate and bundling up. There are a wealth of similarities of Christmas traditions between different countries. But there’s no doubt that each country has its own set of customs and specialities — and France is no different. From its traditional desserts to its decorations, each of France’s regions comes alive for this time of year. Here are 11 French holiday traditions you may not have heard of, including our staff’s favorite ones.
Your Guide to Paris’ 2nd Arrondissement
Tucked among long boulevards and lively market streets, Paris’ 2nd arrondissement can be easy to overlook, but it’s also one of the city’s most authentic and charming districts. Here, historic covered passages sit beside bustling café terraces, and beloved food shops and bakeries line pedestrian streets. Small, central, and full of personality, the 2nd arrondissement offers a true glimpse into classic Parisian life. Want to learn about some of its hidden gems? Read on for your guide to the 2nd arrondissement in Paris.
14 Best Family-Friendly Activities in France
True, France may be a top destination for honeymoons or girls’ trips. But with its vast history and geography, France abounds with activities and destinations for all ages. Whether you have little ones or teens, there are activities for every age category. If you’re on the hunt for a family-friendly trip to France, let us help. From rafting to horseback riding, cooking classes to boat rides, France is full of thrilling activities fit for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for activities ideal for kids or teens in your crew, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite family-friendly activities in France.
Where to Feel the Holiday Spirit in Paris
There’s something undeniably magical about Paris at Christmastime. The glow of twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air, and the excitement of holiday markets make every street in the city feel alive. Whether you’re exploring historic neighborhoods or admiring decorated department stores, the holiday spirit is impossible to miss.
French Wine Region Highlights and Itinerary Ideas
The full-bodied reds of Bordeaux, the tangy rosés of Provence, the crisp whites of Alsace. Recognized across the globe, France’s wine inventory is highly decorated. But to be fair, the term “French wine” is an oversimplification because each wine region bears unique flavor, terroir and character. Each wine region promises its own story and experience. With a country as geographically diverse as France, it’s hard to fit everything into one itinerary: museums, nature, gastronomy, wine, and much more. So, whether you’re wanting to add several wine-themed days to your trip or desiring a trip devoted to discovering the different wine regions, we’re here for you. We’re sharing an overview of France’s main wine regions with their specialities as well as itinerary ideas.
Your Guide to Paris’ 1st Arrondissement
Centuries ago, royalty walked the cobblestone streets of Paris’ 1st arrondissement. Today, tourists and locals alike wander those same paths, where palaces have become museums and royal gardens have turned into the city’s favorite gathering spots. Timeless, elegant, and unmistakably Parisian, this neighborhood is where the city’s story begins. Ready to discover its charm? Here’s your guide to the 1st arrondissement in Paris.
French Culinary Specialities by Region
Croissants, escargots and cheese — this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to French cuisine. With 18 regions in France, each one has its own specialities and traditions. There’s no doubt that you can find wines, cheese and pastries across the country. But each corner of France has its own flair. From Bordeaux’s canelés to Alsace’s stollen, Lyon’s quenelles to Marseille’s bouillabaisse, French cuisine abounds with a flavor for each traveler. With French Side Travel, you can not only discover the best spots to taste these delicacies but also enjoy cooking classes and unique gastronomic experiences. We’ve rounded up some of the best French culinary specialities by region.
Our Little Black Book of Intimate Hotels in France
Sometimes bigger isn’t better. And it’s no different when it comes to hotels during your stay in France. If you’re on the hunt for an exclusive stay for your trip, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite intimate hotel addresses in France. When referring to intimate hotels, we’re referring to establishments with few rooms or a particular boutique approach. Think confidential and reserved experiences from staying in a private floating lodge to having private beach access. Listed by region, here’s our little black book of the most intimate hotels in France.