12 Famous Landmarks in France You Absolutely Need To Visit
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These Historic French Landmarks Have Stood the Test of Time — and Some Date Back Over a Thousand Years

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With over 100 million tourists visiting the country yearly, France is the most visited country globally, and with good reason. France has everything from historic cities and lush countryside to pristine beaches and charming small towns. However, the country is arguably best known for its famous landmarks, of which there are many. 

In fact, with so many impressive landmarks to visit, deciding where to go and what to see in France can be a challenge. Luckily, we’re here to help. We’ve compiled a list of 12 famous landmarks in France you need to see at least once in your lifetime. These entries offer beauty, intrigue, and historical significance.

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Famous Landmarks in France Notre Dame Cathedral Paris © Evannovostro Adobe Stock 78749167 - These Historic French Landmarks Have Stood the Test of Time — and Some Date Back Over a Thousand Years © Evannovostro / Adobe Stock
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris 1/5
Famous landmarks in France, Eiffel Tower, Paris © Laura / Adobe Stock
The Eiffel Tower, Paris 2/5
Famous Landmarks in France Pont du Gard Vers Pont du Gard © Stockbym Adobe Stock 358797986 - These Historic French Landmarks Have Stood the Test of Time — and Some Date Back Over a Thousand Years © Stockbym / Adobe Stock
Pont du Gard, Vers-Pont-du-Gard 3/5
Famous Landmarks in France_The Louvre Museum, Paris © Igor / Adobe Stock
The Louvre Museum, Paris 4/5
Famous Landmarks in France Amiens Cathedral Amiens © Aliaksandr Adobe Stock 705893766 - These Historic French Landmarks Have Stood the Test of Time — and Some Date Back Over a Thousand Years © Aliaksandr / Adobe Stock
Amiens Cathedral, Amiens 5/5

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Famous Landmarks in France Notre Dame Cathedral Paris © Evannovostro Adobe Stock 78749167 150x150 - These Historic French Landmarks Have Stood the Test of Time — and Some Date Back Over a Thousand Years 1
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris
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Famous landmarks in France, Eiffel Tower, Paris 2
The Eiffel Tower, Paris
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Famous Landmarks in France Pont du Gard Vers Pont du Gard © Stockbym Adobe Stock 358797986 150x150 - These Historic French Landmarks Have Stood the Test of Time — and Some Date Back Over a Thousand Years 3
Pont du Gard, Vers-Pont-du-Gard
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Famous Landmarks in France_The Louvre Museum, Paris 4
The Louvre Museum, Paris
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Famous Landmarks in France Amiens Cathedral Amiens © Aliaksandr Adobe Stock 705893766 150x150 - These Historic French Landmarks Have Stood the Test of Time — and Some Date Back Over a Thousand Years 5
Amiens Cathedral, Amiens
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The Eiffel Tower, Paris

Famous landmarks in France, Eiffel Tower, Paris
© Laura / Adobe Stock

Let’s kick things off with France’s most famous and most-visited landmark. Despite being one of the most well-recognized landmarks worldwide, the Eiffel Tower was only supposed to be temporary. Designed and built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, the tower was supposed to be dismantled after 20 years.

However, almost 140 years later, the tower still stands proudly in Central Paris. It’s 1,083 feet (330 meters) tall, making it the tallest building in the city. It features a wrought-iron design and has three viewing platforms, including a top-level observation deck that offers panoramic views of Paris. The tower also comes to life at night with vibrant illuminations and light shows.

  • Dine at 58 Tour Eiffel for a Unique Experience: On the Eiffel Tower’s first floor, 58 Tour Eiffel offers incredible views with a French-inspired menu. Lunch menus start at 41 EUR (about 44.50 USD), and pre-booking is essential. Dinner transforms into a more refined, multi-course dining experience.
  • Book Tickets Online to Save Time: Purchase e-tickets from the official Eiffel Tower website. Tickets to the summit via elevator cost 28.30 EUR (about 30.70 USD) for adults. The tower is open daily from 09:30 to 23:00. Time-stamped tickets allow you to skip ticket queues and head straight to security checks.

Read also: Top Things To Do in Paris

The Louvre Museum, Paris

Famous Landmarks in France The Louvre Museum, Paris
© Igor / Adobe Stock

We could easily list 12 famous landmarks in Paris, but we’ll keep it down to two or three to show you what the rest of France has to offer. Another iconic landmark in Paris is the Louvre Museum, which houses Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Théodore Géricault’s The Raft of the Medusa. 

However, while the masterpieces tucked away inside the museum are its biggest draw, the museum itself is a fascinating landmark. As you approach the Louvre, you’ll be awestruck by its beautiful glass pyramid. Standing at 71 feet (22 meters) tall, the pyramid serves as the main entrance to the museum, so you can’t miss it.

  • Book Louvre Tickets in Advance for Timed Entry: Purchase tickets from the official Louvre website. General admission costs 17 EUR (about 18.50 USD) online and grants access to the permanent collections. The museum is open daily (except Tuesdays) from 09:00 to 18:00, with extended hours on Fridays until 21:45.
  • Explore the Jardin des Tuileries After Your Visit: Adjacent to the museum, the Jardin des Tuileries offers a scenic place to relax after exploring the galleries. The gardens are free to enter and open daily from 07:00 to 21:00 in summer, with shorter hours during winter.

Read also: Cheapest Places to Visit in France

Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris

Famous Landmarks in France Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris
© Evannovostro / Adobe Stock

We promise this is the last Paris landmark on our list. Located on the Île de la Cité in Paris’ 4th arrondissement, Notre Dame is a medieval Catholic cathedral built between the 12th and 14th centuries. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it’s regarded as one of the finest examples of French Gothic artistry and engineering.

The cathedral boasts a beautiful facade with two twin towers, beautifully carved stone gargoyles, multi-colored stained glass windows, and a 315-foot (96-meter) oak spire crowned by a golden rooster. Unfortunately, Notre Dame was significantly damaged in 2019, but restoration has restored most of the cathedral to its former glory.

  • Dine at Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole Nearby: Just steps from Notre Dame, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole offers a charming atmosphere with its flower-covered terrace and French classics like duck confit and crème brûlée. Mains start around 25 EUR (about 27.50 USD). Open daily from 12:00 to 22:00, it’s perfect for a meal after exploring the Île de la Cité.
  • Explore Sainte-Chapelle for Stunning Stained Glass Windows: A short walk from Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle showcases breathtaking stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes. Entry costs 11.50 EUR (about 12.70 USD), and it’s open daily from 09:00 to 17:00.

Read also: Spectacular Castles in France

Amiens Cathedral, Amiens

Famous Landmarks in France Amiens Cathedral, Amiens
© Aliaksandr / Adobe Stock

Moving away from Paris, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Amiens, or simply Amiens Cathedral, is the largest cathedral in France. It’s so big that you could fit two of Notre Dame inside it. Mainly built between 1220 and 1288, the cathedral is over 800 years old and on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Like Notre Dame Cathedral, Amiens Cathedral is adorned with beautiful sculptures, stunning stained-glass windows, and two intricately designed towers. However, this fabulous French landmark also hides a secret. During renovations, it was discovered that the front of the cathedral was once painted in bright colors. To reveal what the facade once looked like, lights were installed to bring it to life at night. This sight isn’t something you want to miss.

  • Witness the Spectacle of “Chroma” at Night: During summer and the holiday season, Amiens Cathedral hosts the “Chroma” light show, which brings its facade to life with vibrant colors. Check the official website for updated show schedules. The event is free, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.
  • Dine at Le Quai After Your Visit: Located along the nearby Somme River, Le Quai is highly rated for its modern French cuisine. Dishes like duck confit and foie gras are highlights, with mains starting at 20 EUR (about 22 USD). It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, with lunch hours from 12:00 to 14:30 and dinner from 19:00 to 22:30.

Read also: Instagrammable Spots in France

Pont du Gard, Vers-Pont-du-Gard

Famous Landmarks in France Pont du Gard, Vers-Pont-du-Gard
© Stockbym / Adobe Stock

The next landmark on our list is Pont du Gard, a spectacular Roman aqueduct in southern France near Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This ancient aqueduct bridge was constructed in the first century AD to transport water over 30 miles (50 kilometers) to Nîmes. Amazingly, most of the bridge, which stands 160 feet (49 meters) tall, was built without mortar.

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Not only is Pont du Gard a remarkable piece of engineering, but it’s also gorgeous. It features a magnificent design with elliptical arches, stands tall above the emerald River Gardon, and is surrounded by lush forest. In other words, it’s a postcard-perfect destination you must visit with your camera.

  • Purchase Tickets Online for Full Access: Entry to Pont du Gard costs 9.50 EUR (about 10.60 USD) for adults and includes access to the bridge, museum, visitor center, and riverbanks. Tickets can be purchased online on the official Pont du Gard website. Opening hours vary by season, but in summer, it’s open daily from 09:00 to 23:00.
  • Stay Late for “Lights on the Pont”: During summer evenings, the aqueduct is illuminated with a breathtaking light and sound show called “Illuminations du Pont.” This spectacle is included with the entry ticket.

Read also: Surreal Places in Southern France

Omaha Beach, Normandy

Famous Landmarks in France Omaha Beach, Normandy
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Omaha Beach in Normandy, Northern France, is a beautiful natural location with a long stretch of golden-sand beach, verdant cliffs, and turquoise waters. However, behind the beauty is a tragic past that makes the beach one of the most historic World War II landmarks. On 6 June 1944, Omaha Beach was one of three beach landing areas along the 50-mile (80-kilometer) stretch of the Normandy coast for Allied troops on D-Day. 

Almost 2,500 soldiers were killed on the beach, making it a sight of immense loss. Today, the beach is dotted with the remains of German bunkers and a stainless-steel sculpture, Les Braves, dedicated to the Allied troops. Above the beach, you’ll also find the Normandy American Cemetery and the Musée Mémorial d’Omaha Beach.

  • Explore the Musée Mémorial d’Omaha Beach: The Musée Mémorial d’Omaha Beach is a small but informative museum near the beach showcasing war relics, photographs, and artifacts from the D-Day landings. Tickets are 7 EUR (about 7.70 USD) for adults, and it’s open daily from 09:30 to 18:30 in summer months (shorter hours in winter).
  • Walk Along Omaha Beach to Reflect: Take a quiet stroll along the 6-mile stretch of Omaha Beach and stop by “Les Braves,” a stainless-steel sculpture commemorating the bravery of Allied troops. Morning visits are especially tranquil for reflection and photography.

Read also: Amazing Beach Destinations in France

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Palace of Versailles, Versailles

Famous Landmarks in France Palace of Versailles, Versailles
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Visit the Palace of Versailles to step into your favorite fairy tale. Constructed in the 17th century, it’s a former royal palace commissioned by King Louis XIV. It’s located in Versailles, approximately 12 miles (20 kilometers) west of Paris. When you enter the palace, you’ll step into a world where royal history and unparalleled wealth meet exceptional architecture and artistry. 

Formerly the epicenter of French power, the Palace of Versailles features breathtaking gardens, spectacular halls, impressive displays of fine art, and luxurious staterooms. Noteworthy things to see in the palace include the Hall of Mirrors, which contains 357 mirrors, the beautiful Royal Chapel, the Gardens of Versailles, and the charming Queen’s Hamlet.

  • Visit the Queen’s Hamlet for a Quieter Experience: Hidden within the Trianon Estate, the Queen’s Hamlet offers a picturesque retreat with rustic cottages designed for Marie Antoinette. It’s included in the Passport ticket and provides a serene break from the palace crowds.
  • Dine at La Petite Venise in the Gardens: Located near the Grand Canal, La Petite Venise is a charming Italian restaurant offering dishes like risotto and tiramisu. Mains start at 19 EUR (about 20.50 USD). It’s open daily from 11:30 to 17:00, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful lunch during your visit.

Read also: Gorgeous French Neighborhoods

Mont Blanc, Chamonix

Famous Landmarks in France Mont Blanc, Chamonix
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The most iconic natural landmark in France is Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in France and Western Europe. With a summit of 15,771 feet (4,807 meters), it’s easily one of the most beautiful places in France, if not Europe. Located in the Mont Blanc Massif, the mountain straddles the French-Italian border and stretches into Switzerland.

You can visit relatively easily from all three countries, but from France, your best bet is to visit from Chamonix, a popular resort town famed for its ski slopes. From Chamonix, you can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car to the Aiguille du Midi mountain summit, which is the highest possible Mont Blanc viewpoint at 12,605 feet (3,842 meters). Admittedly, visiting this landmark isn’t for the faint-hearted.

  • Experience the Step into the Void Glass Box: While at the Aiguille du Midi summit, don’t miss the Step into the Void, a glass skywalk hovering over a 1,000-meter drop. Access is included in the cable car ticket and provides an unforgettable photo opportunity.
  • Visit the Montenvers Railway and Mer de Glace: For another unique experience, board the historic Montenvers Railway. This scenic train ride costs 38.50 EUR (about 42 USD) round trip and takes you to the Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier. It runs daily from 10:00 to 16:00.

Read also: Budge-Friendly Cities in France

Abbey of Mont Saint Michel, Normandy

Famous Landmarks in France Abbey of Mont Saint Michel, Normandy
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Another French landmark out of a storybook is the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel, located on a tidal island of the same name in Normandy. This magical sight has to be seen to be believed. The gravity-defying 9th-century abbey is mind-blowingly beautiful and sits precariously above a charming village

Everything from its stunning interior, impressive Disney-style spire, and gorgeous surroundings is a feast for the eyes. It’s hard to believe Mont Saint Michel wasn’t the inspiration for the iconic Disney Castle. Explore the abbey and stroll around the village for the best viewpoints. Don’t forget to take photographs from across the water, too.

  • Capture Stunning Photos from the Pont-Passerelle: The footbridge leading to Mont-Saint-Michel offers breathtaking views of the island, especially at sunrise or sunset.
  • Enjoy a Meal at Le Tripot Near the Ramparts: Restaurant Le Tripot offers a cozy dining experience with amazing views of the tidal scenery and delicious Norman specialties such as mussels with cream sauce. Main courses start at 24 EUR (about 26.40 USD), and the restaurant is open daily from 11:30 to 21:00. Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits.

Read also: Amazing Places To Visit in France Beyond Paris

Amphitheater of Nîmes, Nîmes

Famous Landmarks in France Amphitheater of Nîmes, Nîmes
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If we asked you to think of a Roman amphitheater, you’d probably think of the Colosseum of Rome. While there’s nothing wrong with that, you should also know about the Amphitheater of Nîmes. Also referred to as the Arena of Nîmes, this impressive structure is the world’s best-preserved Roman Amphitheater. 

Built around 100 CE, shortly after the Colosseum in Rome, it measures a massive 436 feet (133 meters) long and 331 feet (101 meters) wide, with the arena measuring 223 by 125 feet (68 by 38 meters). At its peak, the theater had 34 terraces and a capacity of 24,000 seated spectators. If you time your visit right, you can watch one of the shows that still take place in the arena.

  • Catch a Live Performance at the Arena: Depending on the season, you can attend concerts, bullfights, or historical reenactments like “The Great Roman Games.” Events vary, so check the official event schedule to plan your visit. Ticket prices for special events differ from standard entry fees.
  • Visit the Maison Carrée Nearby: Just a 5-minute walk from the amphitheater, the Maison Carrée is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman temples. Entry costs 6 EUR (about 6.60 USD) and includes a short film about Nîmes’ history.

Read also: Spectacular Medieval Towns in France

Provence Lavender Fields, Provence

Famous Landmarks in France Provence Lavender Fields, Provence
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The penultimate landmark on our list is another beautiful natural landmark that landscape photographers and Instagrammers will quickly fall in love with. In France, there are few more famous natural landmarks than the sight of Provence’s lavender fields. From June to August, especially around the Luberon and Verdon plateaus, the landscape comes alive with color.

The Luberon lavender fields are the first flowers to bloom, awash with lavender. They are easy to access, even easier to spot, and great fun to photograph. Often, from late June, the Valensole Plateau lavender fields follow. Other popular places to view Provence’s lavender fields include Terre Ugo, Sénanque Abbey, and Sault. Provence even has several official Routes de la Lavande you can drive along.

  • Visit Sénanque Abbey for Iconic Lavender Photos: The Sénanque Abbey is surrounded by stunning lavender fields and is a must-visit. The abbey is open daily, and entry to the gardens costs 8.50 EUR (about 9.30 USD). Guided tours inside the abbey are available and must be booked online.
  • Stop at Lavandes Angelvin for Local Products and Photoshoots: Located on the Valensole Plateau, Lavandes Angelvin is one of the best-known lavender farms. It offers a small shop with lavender-infused products like oils and honey. Entry to the fields is free, but purchases are encouraged to support the farm.

Read also: Surreal Places in Southern France

Château de Chenonceau, Chenonceau

Famous Landmarks in France Château de Chenonceau, Chenonceaux
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The final French landmark is a beautiful castle that spans the River Cher in the village of Chenonceau in the Loire Valley. One of the most famous castles in the region, the Chenonceau estate, was first mentioned in the 11th century, but the castle was founded in the 16th century. 

The castle is commonly known as the Ladies’ Castle because several women played a massive part in the upkeep and management of it. The fascinating mixture of late Gothic and early Renaissance architectural styles, intricately designed arches, lush gardens, mesmerizing towers, and beautiful bridges create the perfect scene. Don’t forget your camera when you visit because you’ll also be able to capture stunning photos of the castle’s reflection in the river.

  • Explore the Queen’s Garden for Captivating Views: Within the estate, the Queen’s Garden provides panoramic views of the castle and its reflection in the river. Don’t miss the meticulously landscaped greenery and the perfect photo opportunities here. Access is included in the ticket price.
  • Buy Your Tickets Online to Save Time: Tickets to the Château de Chenonceau cost 15 EUR (about 16.40 USD) for adults and provide access to the castle, gardens, and galleries. The site is open daily, with hours varying by season, typically from 09:00 to 19:00 in summer. Book in advance to avoid waiting at the ticket counter.

Read also: Beautiful Cities and Towns in Southern France

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