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Top 10 things to do in France

Famous for its food, wine and beautiful cities, France is one of the most visited countries in the world, with millions of people travelling there every year. From the sunny beaches to the south of the country, to the welcoming villages of Brittany and the romantic atmosphere of Paris, France easily offers something for everyone. Summer is a great time to visit and here are 10 things to do in France while you are there.


A mechanical elephant at 'Voyage à Nantes'
Discover Nantes through art Located in western France, Nantes is a charming and lively city that will be very active this coming summer. From June 15th to August 19th, the “Voyage à Nantes” (A Journey to Nantes) will bring art to every corner of the city. This event will allow you to experience the town through street exhibitions and activities while discovering unique and wonderful places. You can enjoy most of the city by staying in our hostel in Nantes, located just a few minutes from the city centre. Great music in St Cloud Every year St Cloud just outside Paris hosts the “Rock en Seine”, a music festival that brings some of the greatest rock bands of our time into the city. From August 24th to 26th, Sigur Ros, Placebo, Green Day, Noel Gallagher and many more will play in front of a jubilant crowd. While you are there, why not enjoy the capital of France by visiting popular sights such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, all within easy reach from our Paris hostels.
Futuroscope theme park
The future is in Poitiers If you are fond of watching movies and the latest technologies, you have to visit the Futuroscope in Poitiers, a theme park dedicated to films and the thrilling experience of interactive activities. With a 360o screen, dynamic cinemas and an IMAX 3D dive with the aquatic dinosaurs, the Futuroscope is the perfect place for families, bringing both fun and discovery to kids and adults. Our hostel in Poitiers will be happy to welcome you. Hiking in the Alps Great location for skiing in winter, Chamonix is also a perfect base for a trek in the Alps. With nature reserves, lakes and mountains nearby, you can enjoy beautiful hikes, breathing the fresh air under the summer sun. The Chamonix Mont-Blanc hostel will be happy to provide you all the information you need during your stay in this beautiful environment. Surfing in the Basque Country If you prefer a swim in the Atlantic Ocean instead of a hike in the mountains, head to the Basque Country in the south-west part of France. Close to Spain and famous for its beaches, the cities of Biarritz and Bayonne are popular spots for surfers from all around the world. Bring your board, stay in one of our hostels in the Basque Country and enjoy the thrill of the waves. Theatre in Avignon Every year, in the South of France, the Avignon Festival celebrates theatre in many ways. For three weeks, from July 7th to 28th this year, the tourists can enjoy numerous plays, meet with actors and directors, and visit this great city while being entertained by street performers. Internationally famous, this festival is one of the most popular in France and perfect for all ages. Our hostels in Provence can provide accommodation, not far from Avignon. National Day celebrations The 14th of July is France’s national day and it is celebrated all around the country with fireworks and street events. One of the most impressive is in Paris, at the Eiffel Tower, where thousands of people usually gather. Don’t miss this unique and spectacular experience. Check our Paris hostels for your stay in the city.
The city of Mont St Michel and its Abbey
Visit France’s most popular tourist attraction As one of UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Mont Saint Michel attracts millions of tourists every year and is a must-see while travelling in France. Located at the top of a small island on the coast of Normandy the Abbey of Saint Michel is a perfect example of medieval architecture, surrounded by a small town with ramparts and narrow streets. Check into our Genêts hostel, just in the Mont St Michel bay. Medieval tourism and entertainment in Carcassonne With 3km of fortifications around the old part of the city, Carcassonne is “the” destination to experience medieval architecture and lifestyle. From June 22nd to August 5th this year, the town hosts an annual festival that combines music, theatre, circus and dance. Located just outside the Cité Médiévale, the Hostel Carcassonne is the perfect place to enjoy all the activities of the city.
Cyclists of the Tour de France
Tour de France One of the most famous sporting events in France, the Tour de France is a bicycle race that covers 3,479km around the country. Between June 30th and July 22nd, riders from all part of the world will brave mountains and hills to win the competition. Stay in our hostel in Rouen and welcome the riders at they arrive in the city on July 4th, and leave the following day for the next stage.

As part of our EUROPE OPEN! Campaign, book your hostel in France (or any other European destination) before 31 May 2012 for the chance to win your booking for FREE plus £200 spending money. For Terms & Conditions please read here.
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