There are thousands of reasons to take a trip to France.
Star-crossed lovers will want to visit the romantic attractions of Paris, while wine lovers will have a vineyard vacation in Bordeaux on their bucket lists.
But as well as being a country full of culture, France is also known for its love of sports.
More people are thinking of taking sports vacations these days and with a destination like France, there is so much more to see as well.
You can check out other articles about France to check up on the safety levels of the country – but we thought we would give you a few vacation ideas ahead of making the trip.
Some of the sports listed here require a certain level of expertise.
But don’t worry if you are not exactly to the level of featuring on highlights reels or in the markets at sports betting sites like Bovada.
We’ve also included some top attractions for watching sports as well.
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Paris Olympic Games
In 2024 we couldn’t really start off a France sports vacation guide without mentioning the Summer Olympics.
Paris is hosting the event for the third time and sharing those duties with 15 other cities or regions – including Tahiti.
The event starts on 26th July and runs through 11th August.
The Olympics surely need no introduction but this global event always brings some lesser-known sports to the fore, alongside the more familiar track and field events.
There are 32 sports in all – with 329 different events – so, if you want to be there in person, you should visit the official site for tickets.
Surfing on the Atlantic Coast
The Summer Olympics in France is obviously a time-restricted event but there are plenty of other sports to check out at any time up and down the country.
One of the most dramatic has to be surfing on the Atlantic coast.
The waves down towards the border with Spain are some of the most impressive in Europe.
The terrain of the Bay of Biscay forms the best swells and there are surf schools along the coast for anyone wanting to learn this coolest of sports.
Biarritz is a particularly good base for anyone wanting to enjoy watersports, with the main beach walking distance from the center of town.
White-Water Rafting in the Pyrenees
If you do have a desire to try out some adrenaline watersports in France then the Pyrenees might be a good place to visit.
Hiking is very popular in this mountainous region but there are plenty of other activities that might get you a little wetter.
This is definitely one for the thrill-seekers among you!
Whether you are a solo adventurer or part of a fearless team you can see if you can tame the rapids of the Aude River.
There are even different routes depending on your experience of rafting.
The best time to go is probably between July and September when the water is warmer and you can take in the stunning scenery at the same time.
Cycling in Normandy
Even if you don’t have much knowledge of sports in France, you will probably have heard of the famous cycling event, the Tour de France.
This multi-stage event takes in the whole of the country – and other neighboring nations – each year with the best cyclists in the world competing.
But if you fancy a go at taking in the country on two wheels, there are lots of opportunities, whatever your level.
Springtime in Normandy is particularly beautiful, so what better way to enjoy the wonderful countryside than on a bicycle with friends and family?
Champions League Soccer
Different regions of France have their own sporting customs and devoted fan bases.
But soccer is played throughout the country and there are a number of teams that regularly play at the highest level in Europe.
It may be a little difficult to get a ticket for the big games but Champions League soccer is a thrilling watch.
The big teams include Paris Saint-Germain, Marseille, and Monaco but there are teams playing in Ligue 1 (the top tier of French soccer) all over the nation.
Check the club’s websites for tickets and get ready to enjoy some of the most passionate atmospheres in European soccer.
Mountain Climbing in Provence
Let’s get back to participating in sporting activities, shall we?
With such a stunning landscape, it is unsurprising that many of the top sports vacations include outdoor pastimes.
Provence’s natural topography makes it perfect for cycling and hiking but the more adventurous might want to try mountain climbing.
There are canyons and cliffs to keep the outdoors vibe going but the Montagne Sainte-Victoire, just a few miles from Aix-le Provence, provides incredible views from a limestone ridge.
Don’t worry if you are something of a novice either, there are plenty of signposted trails to show you the way.
Watching Boules Anywhere!
Many of the sports and activities we have profiled here will have you sweating and in need of a sit down afterward.
But to get a truly authentic French sporting experience you can just wander into any town square in the country – although especially in the south – and watch the locals play boules.
A little similar to bowling, boules (or petanque, a variation where both feet must remain on the ground) see participants throw metallic balls as close to a smaller ball as possible.
Many times it will be older men of the town or village and you couldn’t get more French than taking in a few games while sipping on the local wine.
