Rugby fans have a lot to get excited about as Rugby World Cup 2023 approaches. Held over the course of seven weeks once every four years, rugby's centrepiece event is the third-largest sporting competition in the world after the Summer Olympics and football's FIFA World Cup. This year, the Rugby World Cup is being held in France, and whether you're a local or a visitor you'll find plenty to do beyond the games in the nine French cities that are hosting matches.

With more than 45 activities, excursions, and escapes available from Paris, Lille, and Lyon to Nantes, Marseilles, and beyond, you'll find unforgettable experiences that go beyond typical tourist to-dos and offer something truly memorable, and are only for priceless members. Mastercard as a Proud worldwide partner of Rugby World Cup taking place in France.

In Nice, delight in spectacular views from your seats in the Grand Box at the Opéra de Nice and feel like a royal as you take in a stunning opera or ballet performance from the best seats in the house with a glass of champagne*. After the show, receive a tour of the backstage areas of the opera house.

For an adrenaline rush, try indoor skydiving in Lyon or Marseille. Enhanced by Ultimate 4D technology, this activity offers the thrill of skydiving with fewer risks.

Foodies can flock to a Food Mood Tour in Lille or Nantes. With six tastings in each city's can't-miss dining destinations, you'll savour gastronomic gems and taste a variety of regional cuisine. Nantes welcomes wine lovers to the idyllic lower Loire Valley, a legendary region for growing wine grapes. Here you can taste* a selection of the best grape varieties while visiting vineyards and cellars.

If you want to combine sightseeing and breathtaking adventure, put a vertical hike in Sormiou Creek on your itinerary. This challenging trek rewards you with incredible views of Calanques National Park's islands, and you'll also feast on a picnic featuring seasonal local products during your journey.

For a more relaxing lunch (or dinner), a cruise on the Erdre from Nantes is the answer. As you sail past a landscape dotted with castles and manors, you'll want to stay in the surreal setting forever.

For those who are interested in learning new skills, try your hand at an interactive leather goods workshop in Paris or Bordeaux. An expert craftsperson with guide you in creating your own handbag from a choice of three designs so you can take home something truly unique and personal.

No matter what your interests are, there is an exciting activity for everyone in the nine French cities hosting Rugby World Cup 2023. Whether it's family bonding, sightseeing, discovering or broadening a passion, travelling to new places, or sharing breathtaking adventures, these experiences will help you create great memories with loved ones.

For more stories about the awe-inspiring experiences available throughout the nine host cities in France, explore more right here on our special page France 2023.

*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for health, consume with moderation.