Where to go for an EVJF in France? The 13 best destinations

1- Paris

Paris, the city of lovers, offers a multitude of must-do activities and venues for an unforgettable hen party. Explore the charms of the French capital by visiting its emblematic monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower, for which you can buy your ticket herenotre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre. Enjoy a cruise on the Seine, discover the designer boutiques in the Marais district, and dance the night away in the trendy clubs of the Marais district and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The advantage of choosing a city like Paris is that the possibilities are endless. More special activities are also available, such as boat trips on the Seine or limousine rides. Unique experiences such as French cooking classes, professional photo shoots and wine tastings are also available. The romantic atmosphere of the city, with its cobblestone streets, gardens, cafés and bridges, will create the perfect setting for your special event.

2- Nice

Located on the Côte d'Azur with its sunny beaches and Mediterranean charm, Nice is an ideal choice for a relaxing EVJF. Enjoy the sunny beaches and turquoise waters of the sea, sunbathe on the famous Promenade des Anglais and then visit Old Nice with its narrow streets and colorful markets. Finally, sample the delicious cuisine of Nice and its local specialties in the city's restaurants before partying in the many bars and clubs along the seafront. Among the most famous specialties are salade niçoise, socca, pissaladière and fresh seafood. Vieux-Nice and the Promenade des Anglais are home to numerous bars and clubs open all night long, ensuring you'll have a great time. Nice also gives you access to water sports on the Mediterranean, such as jet-skiing, paddle-skiing, diving and sailing. If you prefer to relax, a day at sea on a boat is also a great way to enjoy the coastal scenery. You can also go shopping in the luxury boutiques of Avenue Jean Médecin, or take advantage of your stay to visit inland villages such as Eze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Gourdon. Last but not least, Nice boasts excellent accessibility with its central train station and international airport.

3- Bordeaux

Known for its vineyards and delicious wines, Bordeaux offers a unique gastronomic and cultural experience for an EVJF focused on discovering wine and gastronomy, or for a weekend getaway. Take part in a wine tasting (bookable here) in the region's châteaux, stroll the cobbled streets of the city center, visit the Place de la Bourse and the water mirror, and dance the night away in the lively bars of the Chartons district. Bordeaux's remarkable architecture has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So take advantage of your stay to admire it while shopping on Rue Sainte-Catherine, Europe's longest shopping street. Don't forget to sample local specialties such as foie gras, canelé and entrecôte bordelaise. The town's friendly atmosphere is sure to put you in a good mood. A wide range of outdoor activities are available, including cycling, hiking and beach days. The town is also home to museums and cultural centers such as the Musée d'Aquitaine and the CAPC Musée d'Art Contemporain du Vin. The surrounding vineyards are within easy reach, so you can organize excursions to them (e.g. the Saint-Emilion vineyards) to discover the winemaking process and enjoy wine tastings.

4- Marseille

The vibrant port city of Marseille is perfect for an EVJF with arelaxed, sunny atmosphere. Take advantage of the Mediterranean beaches, such as Plage du Prado and the Calanques, to relax and swim. Discover the old town of Le Panier, visit the famous MUCEM and sample Provencal specialties in the city's many restaurants. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat to explore the Frioul Islands and the Blue Archipelago. Marseille has a rich culture that you can open up to. You can't visit the city without stopping off at the Vieux-Port, which symbolizes the soul of Marseille and where you can enjoy a delicious bouillabaisse while admiring the fishing boats and taking in the atmosphere of the lively quayside. Mediterranean cuisine is omnipresent here, and you can sample local specialties such as bouillabaisse, tapenade, navettes and regional wines. Visit the calanques on an excursion that will take your breath away. The city is renowned for its vibrant art scene and street art, which you won't want to miss during your stay. Last but not least, Marseille is easily accessible via its rail connections and airport.

5- Mont Blanc

For an adventurous, nature-loving EVJF, a getaway to Mont-Blanc is a must. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, with snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. Take part in outdoor activities and discover the wealth of alpine flora and fauna. Don't forget to relax in the charming communes of Chamonix and Megève. A visit to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc will also give you the chance to try some original activities, such as a paragliding flight, bookable here ! For mountain sports enthusiasts, you can go hiking, climbing, mountain biking and even skiing, depending on the season. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, the area around Mont Blanc is full of tranquil mountain lakes around which you can recharge your batteries in the heart of nature. There are also numerous spas and wellness centers where you can enjoy body treatments, massages and thermal baths to relax after your sporting activities. Alpine cuisine is rich in flavor and comfort. Enjoy specialties such as Savoyard fondue, raclette, diots (sausages) and the region's famous cheeses. Last but not least, Mont-Blanc offers you the chance to capture unique moments and create indelible memories in grandiose panoramas with a professional photographer, or by taking your own picture.

6- Biarritz

This chicseaside resort on the Atlantic coast offers an idyllic setting for an EVJF combining water sports activities and relaxation. Learn to surf the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, relax on the sandy beaches, and discover the charm of the city with its elegant boutiques and trendy restaurants. Be sure to visit the Rocher de la Vierge and admire the panoramic ocean views. Biarritz is renowned for its beaches and elegant atmosphere. Biarritz is one of the best surf spots in Europe: whether you're an experienced surfer or a beginner, you can take surf lessons or rent boards to enjoy the waves. The Basque gastronomy will allow you to eat specialties such as Bayonne ham, Espelette pepper, pintxos (Basque tapas) and seafood. Numerous relaxation centers are available in the town, allowing you to unwind with ease. Biarritz is also home to several golf courses with panoramic views of the ocean and mountains for you to try out.

7- Lyon

Gastronomic capital of Francelyon is the perfect destination for a gourmet EVJF. Savor local culinary specialties, such as quenelle and pralines, in traditional Lyonnais bouchons on a gastronomic tour (bookable here). Stroll through the medieval streets of Vieux Lyon, visit the Fourvière Basilica with its breathtaking views over the city, and enjoy the lively nightlife with its many bars and clubs. Vieux Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its traboules, medieval streets and historic buildings. What's more, Lyon is a lively and festive city, especially at night in the Presqu'île, Croix-Rousse and Fourvière hillside districts, where bars and clubs abound. You can also take a cruise on the Saône to admire the magnificent bridges and river scenery. The city also boasts a number of museums and art galleries, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée de la Confluence. Finally, you can visit the traboules, Lyon's typical secret passageways, to see the city from another angle.

8- Strasbourg

With its Alsatian charm and half-timbered houses, Strasbourg offers a romantic and festive atmosphere for an EVJF. Discover Strasbourg's famous cathedral, explore the Petite France district with its picturesque canals, and sample delicious Alsatian specialties like sauerkraut and tarts flambées. And don't miss the Christmas markets during the festive season. These are among the most beautiful in Europe, and if your EVJF takes place during the Advent season, you'll be able to enjoy the fairytale atmosphere and culinary delights. Strasbourg is also rich in cultural heritage, with its UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral and museums such as the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain. And you won't want to miss Strasbourg's famous pretzels and regional wines. For a taste of the region's culinary specialties, we recommend a stop at a winstub. Finally, take a boat trip and discover the city from a different angle, before ending your day in one of the many bars in the student districts of Krutenau and Rue des Juifs.

9- Toulouse

Nicknamed the "Pink City" because of the color of its bricks, Toulouse is a sunny, lively destination for a festive EVJF. Take advantage of the city's nightlife with its many bars and clubs, especially in the lively Saint-Pierre district. For more activities, check out Toulouse's must-sees! Take advantage of its tasty gastronomy and don't miss out on local specialties such as cassoulet, foie gras and Toulouse sausages. You'll easily find all these products at the city's various markets. For cultural activities, you can visit the Musée des Augustins, the Musée d'Art Moderne Les Abattoirs or the Théâtre du Capitole. Take a boat trip on the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before visiting the various vineyards surrounding the city. Toulouse is a city of permanent festive spirit. Throughout the year, the city plays host to numerous events and festivals, such as the Toulouse Carnival, the Rio Loco Festival and the Fête de la Saint Pierre.

10- Annecy

Nestled on the shores of a lake, Annecy offers an enchanting backdrop for an EVJF devoted to nature and relaxation. Explore Annecy's old town with its canals and colorful houses, rent a pedal boat to discover the lake, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking in the surrounding area. Don't forget to sample the region's delicious cheeses, such as Tome des Bauges and Reblochon, as well as local specialties like tartiflette and raclette. Water-based activities are also available on the lake, such as a boat trip, a paddle session, a swim in the crystal-clear waters or a cruise through the Alpine scenery. Annecy is the scene of numerous events and festivals, including the International Animation Film Festival and the Festival des Noctibules. You can visit the Château d'Annecy, also known as the Palais de l'Isle, situated on an islet in the middle of the Thiou canal. Many local craft stores offer regional products and unique souvenirs.

11- Montpellier

A lively city in the south of France, Montpellier offers a mix of culture, beaches and nightlife for a dynamic EVJF. Explore the Place de la Comédie, stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, and relax on Mediterranean beaches like Palavas-les-Flots and La Grande Motte. The city is also renowned for its arts scene and numerous festivals throughout the year. These include the Festival de Radio France et Montpellier, the Festival International du Cinéma Méditerranéen and the Estivales de Montpellier. Montpellier enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. You can take advantage of the pleasant weather to organize outdoor activities and relax on the beaches. What's more, Montpellier offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as cycling along the banks of the Lez river, hiking in the Hérault gorges and water sports on the coast. For those with an eye for architecture, Montpellier offers a combination of the ancient and the modern. Finally, the city is rich in culture and art, with establishments such as the Musée Fabre and the Opéra Comédie. If you're tempted by the destination, check out our selection of activities for an EVJF in Montpellier!

12- Avignon

A historic city with a rich heritage, Avignon is famous for its Palais des Papes and its theater festival. Explore the medieval streets, visit the city's museums, and soak up the cultural atmosphere of the papal city. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars where you can sample Provencal cuisine and relax. Avignon will seduce you with its Provencal charm and local specialties such as ratatouille, tapenade, olives and regional wines. The city offers a festive atmosphere, especially during the summer season. Take advantage of the terraces, open-air concerts and evenings in the bars and clubs to celebrate your EVJF in a joyful, convivial atmosphere. The city is also famous for its Festival d'Avignon, which takes place every summer, and its Pont d'Avignon, otherwise known as the Pont Saint-Bénézet, which offers a view of the city and the Rhône. Finally, you can take a cruise on the Rhône and discover Avignon from the water.

13- Nantes

This creative and lively city offers a vibrant atmosphere for a unique EVJF. Visit the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, explore the Ile de Nantes with its art installations, and discover the city's music and cultural scene. The city is renowned for its art scene. Visit the city's many museums, art galleries and cultural centers to discover contemporary exhibitions, art installations and captivating performances. Nantes is also packed with historic sites that will immerse you in the city's history. If you want to relax, you can also enjoy a stroll along the banks of the Erdre river, which runs through Nantes. You can also hire a boat from one of the waterside bars if you wish. And don't forget to sample the delicious local specialties, such as galettes bretonnes, beurre blanc, fish rillettes and muscadet. Finally, Nantes offers a lively nightlife with numerous bars, pubs and clubs, mainly in the Bouffay and Graslin districts. Interested in Nantes? Buy your your Nantes Pass forfree access to museums, public transport, cruises and guided tours!

What to do for an inexpensive EVJF weekend?

Organizing an EVJF can sometimes be very expensive, but it's not impossible to have a good time without breaking the bank. Here are our tips for keeping your expenses to a minimum.

1- Choose an economical destination. Opt for a city or region close to home to limit transportation costs. See also our 3 tips to know before booking your train tickets!

2- Limit accommodation costs. Choose youth hostels, vacation rentals and budget hotels rather than high-end hotels, to keep as much of your budget as possible for activities.

3- Plan low-cost or free activities. Take advantage of free or low-cost activities available in your chosen destination, such as museums and cultural activities, hiking, the beach or a picnic in a park. There are many free or low-cost options for having fun and making memories.

4- Prepare your own meals. A good way to keep costs down can also be to avoid restaurant expenses by cooking your own meals and opting, for example, for accommodation with a kitchenette or a picnic in a park.

5- Look for special offers and discounts. Check websites, travel apps and social networks for special offers on activities, transport or accommodation.