France isn’t just about pretty scenery and fine cuisine; it’s an active playground for all kinds of adventures and cultural explorations. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush in the mountains, a relaxing wine tasting, or a stroll through a medieval village, France offers something for every type of traveler. We especially love the Canyoning Annecy Angon Discovery for its exhilarating mix of jumps, slides, and mountain pools, all guided safely by a certified expert. It’s perfect for adventure seekers wanting to splash and climb in stunning natural surroundings. For those who prefer sipping wine to jumping from falls, the Winery Tours & Tastings in Carcassonne showcase the best of French viticulture in intimate settings.
We’ve compiled a list of the best Tours & Experiences in France, highlighting the unique qualities of each. This list ranges from adrenaline-pumping activities and scenic explorations to historic village walks and wine tastings, so whatever your style, there’s a memorable experience waiting.
1. Canyoning Annecy Angon Discovery
At number 1, the Canyoning Annecy Angon Discovery combines adventure with breathtaking scenery. For around $69.77 per person, you get 2.5 hours of jumping, climbing, and sliding through the wild yet safe waters of Angon, near Lake Annecy. The tour includes all safety gear — wetsuits, helmets, photos of your exploits, and a certified guide to ensure your safety. The highlight is sliding into mountain pools and experiencing a natural playground that’s perfect for thrill-seekers.
What sets this canyoning adventure apart is its manageable length for beginners and those new to canyoning, along with small groups of no more than 10 people. The reviews speak volumes: “Our first canyoning, very well guided, we had a great time and would do it again.” It’s an ideal activity for families or friends wanting a memorable outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: If you crave a quick adrenaline boost with gorgeous mountain views, this tour offers excellent value, safety, and fun.
2. Winery Tour & Wine Tasting – Deli Plate & 3 Wines
At number 2, the Winery Tour & Wine Tasting in Carcassonne is a wonderful way to escape the city and explore France’s wine-making traditions. For about $80.24, you’ll spend roughly 2 hours immersed in the vineyard, guided by the winemaker himself. The tour includes tasting three carefully selected wines paired with a deli plate, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
What makes this experience stand out is its intimate setting and the opportunity to learn the secrets of French wine production directly from the producer. The tasting portions are generous, and the guide is friendly and knowledgeable, providing insights into vineyard life and wine craft. One reviewer called it “stunning wines, amazing food, and a very welcoming atmosphere.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers seeking a genuine, behind-the-scenes experience with memorable tastings, especially suited for a romantic or special occasion.
3. Winery Visit with Food and Wine in Carcassonne
Ranking third, this Wine and Dine Experience at O’Vineyards combines a guided winery tour with a hearty 2-course dinner, all for about $136.27. The tour, led by the winemaker Joe O’Connell, dives deep into traditional wine-making methods, including visits to the barrel room and tastings of the estate’s wines.
The highlight is the pairing of these wines with a grilled plate, cheese, or dessert, making for a full flavor experience. The guide’s personal touch and the chance to taste wines directly from the producer create a sense of authenticity. The 3-hour tour is suited for first-time visitors wanting a complete introduction to French viticulture in a relaxed atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine novices or foodies wanting a combined culinary and wine experience in a scenic setting.
4. Seignosse Electric Scooter Excursion
Number 4 is the Seignosse Electric Scooter Excursion, which introduces visitors to the local scenery via eco-friendly transport. For around $68.50, you’ll enjoy 1.5 hours of riding through Seignosse and Hossegor, with options for beginners or experienced riders. The tour includes optional fat-wheeled scooters, perfect for tackling sandy paths and forest trails.
Guided by seasoned instructors, the focus is on fun and safety, with reviews praising the “perfect parcours, very pretty in the forest, with climbs, descents, and sandy passages.” It’s a laid-back yet active way to explore the area’s natural beauty and coastal charm.
Bottom Line: Best suited for outdoor lovers who want a new way to discover Seignosse’s varied terrain without breaking a sweat.
5. Sensation Paragliding Flight over Lake Annecy
Number 5, the Paragliding Flight over Lake Annecy, offers an unforgettable perspective on one of France’s most scenic lakes. For $139.33, you’ll soar for about an hour with a certified instructor from the legendary Col de la Forclaz, gliding over turquoise waters and alpine peaks.
Guests consistently rave about the safety and friendliness of the guides, with reviews mentioning “the best instructor and an incredible view.” The experience combines thrill and serenity, making it suitable for adventure lovers and those wanting a peaceful yet exhilarating flight. You’ll arrive 15 minutes early at the takeoff point for a smooth start.
Bottom Line: An extraordinary way to see Lake Annecy from above, ideal for thrill-seekers and photography enthusiasts alike.
6. Cellar Visit and Alsace Wine Tasting with a Feminine Touch
Number 6 highlights the Feminine Approach to Alsace Wine Tasting, offering a 1-hour cellar tour for just $20. The guide shares insights into the wine-making process from a unique perspective, emphasizing organic and typic Alsace wines.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach, learning about the region’s characteristic wines and then tasting a diverse selection. The visit includes the opportunity to purchase wines directly from the producer, making it practical as well as educational. With a friendly and professional guide, this is a beginner-friendly experience that deepens your understanding of local wine culture.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for curious newcomers or those interested in organic wines seeking a quick but meaningful tasting experience.
7. Rafting Savoie – Descent of the Isère
Number 7, the Rafting Descent of the Isère, provides 1.5 hours of river adventure for $93.76 per person. Starting with a 3-hour trip, it’s perfect for families or groups looking for a splashy day on the water. The tour features exciting rapids, including three rapids and a passage under the Pont d’Arc, with safety equipment provided.
The team is described as lively and passionate, making the trip fun and memorable. The local base offers facilities like changing rooms, showers, and a restaurant, so you can relax afterward.
Bottom Line: Great for active families or groups wanting a safe, fun water activity with guaranteed thrills and scenic river views.
8. Guided Tour of Collonges la Rouge
Number 8 explores the stunning Collonges la Rouge, a village famous for its red sandstone buildings. For approximately $157, a licensed guide takes you on a one-hour tour, focusing on the architecture and history of this picturesque place. The visit includes the Eglise Saint-Pierre, which boasts a well-preserved Romanesque tympanum.
The village’s authentic charm is vividly captured in its restored buildings and quiet streets—perfect for history and architecture buffs. Reviews highlight the guided tour’s engaging storytelling and the village’s photogenic quality, making it an excellent stop for a half-day trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors interested in architecture, local history, and authentic villages that feel like stepping back in time.
9. Guided Tour of Albi at the Time of the Cathedrals
Number 9 brings you into Medieval Albi with this 1.5-hour guided tour at just $14.23. Led by a passionate guide, the tour starts near the iconic Sainte Cécile Cathedral and takes you through the Palais de la Berbie and the lively neighborhoods, revealing Albi’s tumultuous past and its striking architecture.
The tour concludes at the Saint Salvi cloister, where you can soak in medieval history. Reviewers appreciate the engaging storytelling and detailed insights. This tour is perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting a focused, affordable introduction to Albi’s medieval highlights.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, informative tour suited for those wanting a quick yet enriching experience of Albi’s history.
10. Puy du Fou Theme Park 1 Day Entrance Dated Ticket
Number 10 offers a full day of entertainment at the Puy du Fou Theme Park. For $87, you’ll enjoy over 20 shows that combine stunning stunts and storytelling across 1500 animals and four different historical periods. It’s a must-visit for families or anyone fond of theatrical spectacles.
Guests praise the park as “the best in the world,” and the variety of shows ensures something for all, from ancient battles to medieval festivals. The 1-day ticket is flexible, allowing you to pick your preferred days, but booking early ensures availability during busy seasons.
Bottom Line: A lively, visually spectacular activity for families and history lovers alike, with an emphasis on entertainment and immersive storytelling.
11. Discovery of a Champagne from Vintner, from the cellar to the tasting
Number 11 brings you to the Champagne region with a Vintner-led Champagne tasting. For about $14.24, visit the estate to learn firsthand how Champagne bubbles are made, then taste different varieties guided by Isabelle or Angelique. The 1.5-hour experience includes a cellar tour and a themed tasting focusing on grapes, dosages, or vintages.
This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a personal, behind-the-scenes look at Champagne production. The reviews highlight the authenticity and educational value, making it an affordable way to learn about France’s most famous sparkling wine.
Bottom Line: Great for curious wine lovers who want to understand Champagne’s nuances directly from the producer.
12. Lalande-de-Pomerol visit to Chatonnet vineyards
Number 12 offers a guided vineyard and cellar tour in Lalande-de-Pomerol. For $17.29, you’ll explore the grounds, learn about the wine-making process from a friendly guide, and taste three wines. The personalized approach and focus on local terroir make this a memorable introduction to Bordeaux wines.
Guests mention the attentive guide Alicia and the beautiful, well-maintained environment. A perfect choice for wine novices wanting an authentic experience without spending a fortune.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those new to wine tasting or seeking a relaxed, informative look at Bordeaux’s wine culture.
13. Visit of Albi in the Age of Enlightenment guided by Mme de Laperouse
Number 13 transports you back to Albi’s 18th-century period with a theatrical tour led by Madame de Lapérouse herself. For about $23.05, this 1.5-hour experience includes storytelling in period costume, walking through historic streets, and exploring the Jardins de la Berbie.
The guide’s engaging narration about her life, her husband, and Albi’s social scene makes history come alive. Reviewers note the lively storytelling and immersive atmosphere, perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Bottom Line: An entertaining, educational tour ideal for those interested in France’s Enlightenment era and historical storytelling.
14. Family Trip Down the Ardèche by Canoe/Kayak
Number 14 offers a family-friendly canoe/kayak trip lasting about 3 hours for around $- (check availability). Covering approximately 12 km, this trip includes three slides, rapids, and a passage under the Pont d’Arc, making it perfect for active families.
Guests love the flexible schedule and small organization that prioritizes fun and safety. “We had a brilliant time,” writes one reviewer, emphasizing the friendly service and scenic route. It’s an excellent way for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
Bottom Line: Best for active families wanting a safe, fun water adventure with memorable moments and beautiful views.
How to Choose the Right Tour in France
Choosing between these experiences depends on your interests, budget, and energy level. For adrenaline junkies, the canyoning (Tour #1) or rafting (Tour #7) offer unforgettable thrills. If wine tasting is your focus, the Carcassonne wine tours (Tours #2 and #3) and the Champagne cellar visit (Tour #11) are excellent choices for deeper exploration. History enthusiasts should consider the village of Collonges la Rouge (Tour #8) or Albi’s medieval and Enlightenment tours (Tours #9 and #13). For outdoor explorers, the electric scooter excursion (Tour #4) or family canoe trip (Tour #14) provide active ways to experience France’s diverse landscapes.
Book early, especially for popular spots like Puy du Fou or Champagne tastings. Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and whether you prefer culture or outdoor adventure. Each tour offers a distinct slice of France, making it easier to craft a memorable trip tailored to your preferences.
Final Thoughts
From thrilling canyoning adventures in Annecy to intimate wine tastings in Carcassonne or exploring picturesque villages, France offers a wide range of memorable activities. If you’re after high-energy fun, Tours #1 and #7 are perfect picks. For a relaxed yet authentic taste of French culture, Tours #2, #3, or #11 will satisfy your palate.
No matter your travel style, these experiences promise genuine moments and lasting memories. To ensure availability and the best prices, consider booking early. Happy exploring — France’s best tours await!