magical places to visit in france

17 Magical Small Towns in France You Need to See to Believe

When it comes to France, most people only think about the sparkling Eiffel Tower in Paris or the beautiful coastline in the French Fiviera, but France has a lot more to offer.

Fairytale-looking medieval villages, hilltop views, majestic castles, vineyards, lavender fields, pastel-colored buildings along the coastline – these are just a few of the many reasons why you need to spend at least a few days in the French countryside.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities and looking for an authentic French experience, you are in the right place!

From the fairytale-looking Alsace to the dreamy Provence and the stunning French Riviera, here are the most beautiful villages and small towns in France you absolutely can’t miss.

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Most Beautiful Small Towns in France

Are you looking for the best towns to visit in France? Don’t worry, I got you covered!

In this article you will find all the most beautiful small towns in France together with a bunch of useful recommendations about the best things to do in each location, how much time to spend there and lots of other insider tips.

1. Valensole

Recommended by Kriszti  from She Wanders Abroad

Located on the northern edge of the Verdon Regional Nature Park, the cute little town of Valensole is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in France. Valensole is built on the side of a hill, overlooking a small river valley so beautiful views are guaranteed.

The medieval village boasts many beautifully restored colorful houses with pretty shutters and you can find several chapels, fountains, and gardens in Valensole as well.

There is no shortage of restaurants, cafes, and shops either, where you can find many crafts and traditional products, especially ones made from lavender.

Although the town of Valensole is really pretty in itself, what makes it even more special is the Plateau of Valensole located around the town, which is famous for its lavender and truffles.

This is the biggest area in France devoted to growing lavender so if you’re dreaming of visiting the lavender fields in Provence , Valensole is the perfect base for discovering the area.

The lavender season generally lasts from mid-June to mid-July so this is definitely the best time to visit Valensole if you want to see blooming lavenders.

Apart from lavender fields, you can also find many other fields like sunflower, sage, or hay. The whole area is absolutely beautiful, so it’s worth spending at least 3-4 days there to be able to explore all the beauty Provence has to offer.

2. Roussillon

Situated in Luberon, near the foothills of Monts de Vaucluse, the small town of Roussillon looks like a real-life fairytale village with its pastel-colored houses and dreamy cobblestoned streets.

No wonder it’s listed in the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France – a collection of the most beautiful villages in France covering 14 regions and 70 departments in the country.

The town features many beautiful buildings and lively squares so you can easily spend a full day in Roussillon wandering through its charming streets and enjoying the small-town vibes.

You can find several amazing cafes and restaurants in Roussillon featuring delicious local delicacies – don’t forget to try the lavender ice cream which is the specialty of the Provence region!

Roussillon is situated in the biggest ochre deposits in the world, therefore it’s famous for its beautiful red cliffs and ochre quarries.

Following the Ochre Trail – a path leading through the ochre lands – is one of the best things to do in Roussillon and if you’re keen on learning more about how the ochre is processed, you can visit the Ochre Conservatory.

There are many organized day trips from Avignon that include a short visit to Roussillon but if you have your own car, you can easily reach Roussillon from Marseille and Nice as well.

Since the town is really popular among tourists, it’s best to go early in the morning otherwise finding a parking spot will be very difficult.

Recommended by Nadine  from Le Long Weekend

One of the most iconic villages in Provence, Gordes has lured visitors for centuries with its bucolic position, charming character, and rebellious history. Today it’s a quiet place to visit, but its allure still stands true.

Nestled into the heart of the Luberon valley – an area of immense natural and manmade beauty – it’s very close to other well-known villages such as Roussillon and Menerbes.

But Gordes is perhaps the most photographed village as it is perfectly perched on the edge of a hill, its houses cascading down the side and a prominent church and château sitting at the helm.

It’s easy to see why Gordes is one of the most beautiful small towns in France!

Visit on a Tuesday morning to take advantage of the weekly market which is held in the main square.

Meander through the pretty cobblestone streets and take in the views of the valley below, pop into the handful of boutiques selling handmade figurines and locally-made cosmetics, and pause in one of the cafes for a leisurely lunch or dinner with a view.

Nearby, you’ll find the famed Abbey de Senanque which is surrounded by lavender fields in summer, and the not-so-well-known Village des Bories which is a fascinating look at the area’s history.

You could visit Gordes in a day, or use it as a luxurious base to explore the Luberon.

Recommended by Ophélie  from Limitless Secrets

Menton is the cutest town located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, close to the border with Italy.

Menton is one of the most beautiful towns in France as it has an ideal location, lovely architecture, and a wonderful climate. It’s so gifted that it’s often called “the Pearl of France”!

First of all, the town has a few beautiful beaches that you can access very easily. Secondly, the buildings in the Old Town of Menton are really picturesque, they are all painted with ochre colors and have cute louvered shutters.

Last but not least, the climate in Menton is exceptional with warm temperatures, a lot of sun, and very little wind. If you’re looking for the best winter sun destinations in Europe , it can be an amazing choice!

Here are the best things you can do in Menton. You can start by wandering in the medieval Old Town, where you will be able to admire all the pretty colorful houses.

Take a look at the beautiful Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel on your way! If you love photography, you will find countless beautiful Instagram spots in Menton , especially in the Old Town.

Enjoying the beach is also a must when in Menton. Additionally, the town is full of pretty gardens with many interesting plants, such as Villa Maria Serena or Fontana Rosa garden.

Lastly, you can have a look at the Bastion, a fortress built in the 17th century which is now a museum. It has been decorated by Jean Cocteau, a famous French artist.

Menton can easily be visited as a day trip from Nice but if you want to properly discover the town, it’s best to spend at least 2 days there.

If you want to enjoy the exceptional climate and the beach you can stay even longer and you can also make Menton your base for discovering some of the most beautiful cities in France  on a French Riviera road trip like Marseille, Cannes, or Nice.

5. Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

Recommended by Samantha  from A Truthful Traveler

Walking through Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is like walking back through time. The narrow cobblestone streets, the many passageways, and the friendly shops lead up a hill to a fortress overlooking Menton and Monaco on either side.

An often-overlooked town that lies between a principality and one of the Riviera’s up-and-coming towns, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin offers any visitor respite from the tourists down below.

The views from the 10th-century fortress are worth the steep climb up to the town. Looking through crumbling rock steeped in history, travelers see the yachts that line the Monaco harbor.

From way up above, they will see the water shimmering a beautiful blue in contrast with the orange tops of the houses in town.

A day trip will suffice to explore Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Visitors can marvel at the beauty down below while having a picnic.

Le Vieux-Village (Old Town) Roquebrune is home to many restaurants and Le Comptoir de l’Aumônerie near the main square has a large selection of meats, French cheeses, and other take-out foods to go.

A visit to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin will offer a new perspective on the French Riviera , and any person visiting will fall in love with its charm!

Recommended by Anu  from Country Hopping Couple

Sitting on a hilltop overlooking the stunning Mediterranean coast, the picturesque medieval village of Eze is undoubtedly one of the prettiest villages in France.

Eze is situated along the French Riviera and since it’s very close to Nice, it’s possible to visit Eze as a day trip from Nice .

Eze is also a popular cruise destination on the Mediterranean coast. However, if people are coming via cruise, it does involve a strenuous uphill hike to reach Eze Village.

Alternatively, if you are using public transport, there are bus services from Nice that stop directly at Eze Village.

Explore the 1000-year-old medieval hilltop village, passing through the honeycomb-colored buildings, houses, and souvenir shop.

One of the most famous attractions in Eze is Jardin Botanique d’Eze, a three-tier botanical garden that hosts cactus, succulents, and exotic plants overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The path to the botanic garden is steep and uphill, but at the end, you are rewarded with sweeping views.

If you fancy, you can also visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory which is located within a short walking distance from the entrance of the gardens. 

Alternatively, you can hike down on the Nietzsche Path that connects Eze-Sur-Mer beach to Eze Village via a 5 km (3.1 miles) steep hiking route.

7. Villefranche-sur-Mer

Recommended by Veronika from Travel Geekery

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming commune on the French Riviera, just on the outskirts of Nice. It’s a popular escape for Nice dwellers since the town provides more peace and quiet and a lot nicer beaches than Nice does.

If you’re looking for the best small towns in France, you definitely need to put Villefranche-sur-Mer on your list!

The lovely town is made up of a labyrinth of small winding streets all leading down towards the seaside promenade and Villefranche’s main pebble beach. In the town, you should definitely spend some time tasting local gastronomy and strolling around.

Baroque Saint Michael’s Church can be found in the heart of the Old Town. Don’t miss a nearby Saint Peter’s Chapel with a uniquely painted façade.

Villefranche Citadel is located right above the bay and is just a short stroll away. It houses the Town Hall and several museums and the area provides wonderful views of Villefranche bay. Since the Bay is especially deep by nature, large cruise ships can often be found anchored there.

It’s easy to visit Villefranche on a day trip from Nice – at least half a day is recommended. You can choose any means of transportation, including the train (7 mins).

You can even walk if you like, that would take an hour. Most Nice locals simply hop on a scooter (20 mins), especially on weekends!

8. Saint Paul de Vence

Recommended by Victoria from Bridges and Balloons

Saint-Paul de Vence is a charming, walled medieval village perched on top of a hill, looking out to the Mediterranean sea. Aside from being perfectly picturesque, it’s most famous for the artists who flocked there in the past, including Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall.

Today it remains a place where artists congregate, and the higgledy-piggledy streets are lined with creative galleries.

It’s also home to the well-renowned art museum, Fondation Maeght. St Paul de Vence is a perfect place to spend some time browsing the galleries, enjoying the views, and tracing the footsteps of history’s greats.

It’s definitely one of the most beautiful small towns in France and it’s a perfect place to include on a  Western Europe road trip , stopping at other beaches and hill towns along the way.

Things to do in St Paul de Vence include visiting the cemetery where Chagall is buried, enjoying the artwork in the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs and going to the Musee Renoir where Renoir used to live.

A visit to the Fondation Maeght is highly recommended and includes a beautiful walk through pine forests from the village.

La Colombe D’Or is the village’s most famous and fancy restaurant, but another good option is La Tilleul.

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Saint Paul de Vence, check out Hotel La Grande Bastide which has sweeping views of the village.

Recommended by Emma from Emma Jane Explores

Grasse is a gorgeous small town in France, just inland from the French Riviera. Famous for being the home of French perfumeries, Grasse is recognized worldwide for being the capital of perfume. In addition, Grasse has a beautiful old town with lots of windy cobble-stoned laneways to wander through and explore.

To get to Grasse on a day trip from the French Riviera using the central city of Nice as a starting point, it will take around 45 minutes to drive. By train or bus, the same trip will take just over an hour.

When in Grasse, it would be madness not to take in a few perfumeries. Molinard, Fragonard, and Galimard are all big names in the French perfume industry and they all have stores here to explore.

The International Perfume Museum is another great spot to learn all about the town’s rich history in creating fragrances.

Another brilliant spot in Grasse is to take in the exceptional views from the Grasse Cathedral. This historic 13th-century church is a great display of Romanesque architecture, easily accessible in the old town.

Far and away, though, the best thing to do in Grasse is to wander the streets of the old town and explore. The magic of the quaint, medieval streets holds many surprises from providores to perfumeries which are absolutely worth taking the time to discover.

10. Carcassone

Recommended by Dani from Diapers in Paradise

Carcassonne is a fortified town in the Southern region of France, famous for its citadel, dating back to the Gallo-Roman period. It is a stunning example of medieval architecture, complete with double walls, a drawbridge, and 53 watchtowers.

The location of the town on a hilltop at the center of several ancient trade routes established Carcassonne as an important strategic stronghold, which gave it a storied history of successive rulers that has led it to become the incredible UNESCO World Heritage site that it is today.

Even if you are not a history buff, Carcassonne has much to offer. Within the fortress are several bars, restaurants, and other establishments where you can enjoy a refreshment while admiring the citadel around you.

You might feel like you’ve stepped into another time period altogether, but you can still do some shopping while you’re at it.

The Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus is one of the main attractions of the town and is a seamless blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.

Construction began on the church in the 800s but was not completed for around 600 years, which explains the shift in architectural style. Its rose window dates back to 1280.

Although the town itself is fairly small, it’s still one of the most beautiful towns in France, and visiting Carcassonne will definitely be a unique and memorable experience. A few days is enough to explore the fortress and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

To make the most of your trip, time your visit to catch a concert at the Theatre Jean Deschamps. This music venue is on the site of the former cathedral cloister and is an epic place to take in a show within the fortress.

It has hosted many of the biggest names in music on its intimate amphitheater stage and is unlike any other venue in the world.

11. Issigeac

Recommended by Kylie from Visiting Dordogne

Issigeac in the Dordogne region of South-West France is a beautiful medieval village that’s been standing since the 13th century.

It’s located just 20 minutes from the town and airport of Bergerac and a little more off the beaten track than some of the more popular villages in France.

The highlight of Issigeac is its Sunday market which attracts locals and tourists from all over Dordogne.

You’ll find artisan stallholders selling the best of the region – beautiful fresh chèvre goats cheese, the sweet local Monbazillac wine, cakes, pastries, and oils made from local walnuts and beautiful pottery.

It does get very busy during the summer months so it’s worth arriving early (around 8:30 – 9 am) if you want the pick the best of the products and escape the crowds.

A wander through Issigeac is like taking a step back in time with wonderfully preserved old buildings and distinctive half-timbered houses.

The landmark Bishop’s Castle is a stunning building dating back to the 16th century, with close connections to the papal palace in Avignon at the time.

Next door is the gorgeous church of Saint Félicien with lovely stained glass windows and peaceful air. If you’re visiting on Saturday afternoon in the summer you may be lucky enough to spot a wedding taking place.

You can explore Issigeac in a couple of hours but since it’s one of the best small towns in France, it’s worth staying a few days to soak up the atmosphere of the town.

There are a number of great cafes and restaurants within the town, but for a special meal, a visit to La Brucelière restaurant to dine on the terrace and enjoy the best of local produce is a must.

Recommended by Jessie from Pocket Wanderings

Located in the Charente region of South West France, Cognac is a quintessential French town. Wandering around cobbled streets, admiring charming architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries, and exploring the beautiful gardens are just a few of the many amazing things to do in Cognac.

Known for its production of Cognac – a type of brandy – you can’t visit Cognac without embarking on a tour of one of the distilleries.

Home to Hennessey, Rémy Martin, and many more, you’ll have a chance to learn all about the distillery process and take part in some Cognac tasting.

If the distilleries aren’t to your taste, take a stroll along the banks of the River Charente. Or, to explore the river a little further, hire a canoe and go paddling down the Charente.

Stop for a meal and a refreshing glass of wine at one of the riverside restaurants. You’ll be spoilt for choice with restaurants in Cognac, all serving delicious local food.

Cognac makes a perfect stop along a French road trip. A couple of nights in this charming French town are enough to see what’s on offer. For a little more relaxation, stay in a villa or château nearby for a longer stay.

If you’re a music lover then you will love the Cognac Blues Passions Festival, which takes place every July. With a great line-up, wonderful atmosphere, and brilliant jazz music, it’s the perfect way to spend a few summer days in Cognac.

Recommended by Cosette from KarsTravels

Located in the Dordogne department, Beynac is one of the most beautiful small towns in France. It’s so beautiful that it even made it to the list of Plus Beaux Villages de France!

The town towers over the river and the views and accessibility make it one of the best towns to visit in France.

Wander through the medieval streets and browse through the souvenir shops. Visit the castle perched on top of the mountain, towering over the town. Next to the castle is a path that has a perfect view over the river Dordogne and its surroundings.

Take a ride on a Gabarre de Beynac, a freight ship from the 18th and 19th centuries, on which you can take a tour on the river. From the river, the views are fantastic on the town of Beynac.

The last thing to do in Beynac is go kayaking on the river Dordogne, it’s a great activity with perfect views. Visiting Beynac is definitely one of the top things to do in the Dordogne with kids .

If you plan to do all the thing there is in Beynac, including the Gabarre ride and kayaking, then plan a whole day. If you only want to do the things inside the town walls, take half a day for it.

The restaurants inside the medieval town mostly cater to tourists so instead of eating there, it’s better to have lunch at the restaurant Hostellerie Maleville on the river.

14. Amboise

Recommended by Karen from Where I Wandered

The beautiful town of Amboise in the Loire Valley of France is a perfect place to stay in order to see the area. Although it is close to many of the most popular chateaux in the Loire Valley, Amboise is a destination in its own right.

It has a lovely setting on the banks of the Loire River and the old buildings, gorgeous gardens, and quiet cobblestoned streets make Amboise one of the most beautiful towns in France.

However, Amboise is more than just pretty. It also has its own chateau, Chateau D’Amboise, situated above the town with gorgeous views over the river and valley.

There is a small chapel on the grounds of the castle which holds the burial site of Leonardo da Vinci. Chateau D’Amboise is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles in Europe and it’s a must-visit in the Loire Valley.

While in Amboise you can also visit Clos de Luce, a gorgeous manor home where da Vinci spent his final years. Even in his old age he was still working and creating and at Clos de Luce you can see some of his creations brought to life.

Amboise is known for its wonderful food. Restaurant L’ilot is one of the best restaurants in Amboise , it provides a unique experience where you can watch the chef at work in the middle of the restaurant while you dine.

If you decide to spend the night in Amboise you will find a multitude of wonderful manor homes to choose from which have been converted into small, but luxurious hotels.

15. Provins

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

Provins is a cute medieval small town in France, located 90 km (56 miles) southeast of Paris. Provins is quite small so it’s easy to visit as a day trip from Paris . Direct trains leave hourly from Paris Gare de l’Est to Provins and it takes less than 1.5 hours to reach Provins.

It is also possible to visit Provins as a day trip from Disneyland Paris, with many direct bus connections between Disneyland Paris and Provins.

In medieval times, Provins was a fair town under the protection of the Counts of Champagne. It was dedicated mostly to the trade of tissues and thanks to its central location in Europe and the Counts’ protection it became very rich to the point that it had its own coin.

Still today Provins celebrates a themed medieval market in June, and all the inhabitants and merchants are dressed up in medieval costumes.

Provins managed to keep a big part of its medieval heritage, like the walls and some defensive towers. In the Old Town, there’s an imposing keep named Cesar Tower that is worth a visit.

Other interesting things to see in Provins are its medieval squares, medieval architecture with half-timbered houses, and a few museums dedicated to some aspects of life in medieval Provins.

16. Ribeauville

Recommended by Bec from Wyld Family Travel

There are many beautiful towns in the Alsace region of France and Ribeauville has to be one of the very best. With the fairy tale buildings that the area is known for and one of the world’s most famous cuisines, Ribeauville is definitely one of the best towns to visit in France.

As you walk up the main street, the castle on the hill (Chateau Saint Ulrich) looks down on you and on a warm, sunny day it looks majestic in the surrounding forests.

The main street is gorgeous in itself. From cute little souvenir shops to food stores you can find something that will give you a gorgeous memory of your trip to Ribeauville. The windows in the houses above the shops are decorated, especially at Christmas time.

On Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings you will find a fresh produce market in the town square that sells some of the tastiest fresh produce from the area.

It is brilliant to purchase some of this food and take it home to cook. If you are unable to cook it you can eat it on the spot or as you wander the town.

While you may only need a few hours to wander the streets of Ribeauville, you can make this gorgeous town the base for your trip to the Alsace.

From here you can visit many of the vineyards the area is famous for or you can take a day trip to places like Strasbourg or Colmar where you can find one of the best Christmas markets in Europe during the holidays.

And don’t forget to look up to see the stork’s nests sitting precariously on top of the chimneys in some places!

17. Bonifacio

Recommended by Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Located on the southernmost tip of the French island of Corsica, Bonifacio commands an impressive position. Bonifacio is made up of two very distinct parts.

The lower, more modern marina of Bonifacio is packed with yachts and is perfect for people-watching at the many bars and restaurants which line the waterfront.

Contrastingly, looking down on this modern glamour is the older part of Bonifacio, a medieval citadel perched on a rocky cliff with outstanding views of the Mediterranean Sea and the lovely Lavezzi Isles. There are boat trips to the islands – they offer beautiful unspoiled beaches.

The medieval part of Bonifacio is reached via a steep pathway (or a little tourist train if you’re arriving in the heat of summer).

The warren of narrow streets are filled nowadays with shops and restaurants but it’s not difficult to imagine how this little settlement must have been hundreds of years ago.

Stone churches are squeezed between fancy eateries and narrow passageways give glimpses of the sea where enemy ships would have been spied in days gone by.

Bonifacio is an essential day trip for anyone visiting southern Corsica. Come out of season for a more authentic experience when the streets will be quieter but the views no less dramatic.

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4 thoughts on “17 Magical Small Towns in France You Need to See to Believe”

So many lovely towns in France! Although I am French I can see that I haven’t visited 6 places on this list yet! I am glad you shared those less-known places!

I’m so happy you like the list Ophélie! I still have so many places I need to visit in France!

I don’t see Poitiers listed. Am I missing it?

I lived there from the start of 1962 through the end of 1964. The first year or so, we lived among French people, then we spent the rest in a housing area for US military families. Our French neighbors were gracious “hosts” who went out of their way to help us feel less foreign. It was a really wonderful experience that left me with lasting memories all these decades later. I feel sorry for my younger brothers and sisters who don’t have the memories I do.

That sounds like an amazing memory indeed! I must say, I’ve never heard of Poitiers before but it looks really beautiful. Hoping to see it some day!

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22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in France

When most people think of France, they think of fine wine and cuisine, exceptional scenery, and a laid-back lifestyle that is the envy of the rest of the world.

The gorgeously diverse landscape—inspired by centuries of influential writers, artists, and poets—includes huge mountain ranges, acres of green countryside, and long stretches of sparkling coastline.

I’m hugely in love with France and have been many times. So, from my many trips to this incredible country (and Paris aside), I’ve compiled this list…

1. Côte d’Azur

The sun-soaked Mediterranean coastline of southeast France, also known as the French Riviera, is a place I’m captivated by! 

The glamorous region has transfixed many famous visitors over the decades (including royalty, writers, and artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse). Its miles of gorgeous coastline and azure waters make it one of the best places to holiday in the world.

Once here, I recommend visiting the stylish coastal cities of Nice, Cannes, and St-Tropez—they remain exclusive holiday resorts where beautiful people reside even today!

Book A Trip!

We can book your trip hopping around France’s beautiful places through our free, top-rated travel planning service!

2. Provence

A region in southeastern France bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, the spectacular Provence countryside deserves a mention.

Head for the Luberon area (located in the heart of the Provence region). Here, you’ll find the most stereotypical rural Provence scenery —beautiful landscapes filled with seemingly endless lavender fields, lush olive groves, undulating vineyards, and pretty ancient hilltop villages dotted with shutter-board houses.

Ensure you also include trips to the picturesque villages of Gordes, Baux-de-Provence, St. Rémy, and the dazzling walled city of Avignon. Long lazy days and alfresco lunches washed down with plenty of wine await you in this rural chic paradise! 

3. Loire Valley

An area of outstanding natural beauty in Europe, the Loire Valley is also affectionately known as the Garden of France. The valley spans over 280km and is located in central France’s beautiful middle stretch of the Loire River.

It is filled with so much culturally and historically important architecture that it has earned itself the status of a World Heritage site.

One of the most visited regions in the country, it’s known for its large collection of fairytale-esque chateaus and mansions, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the most striking rivers in Europe. This is a tranquil bourgeois paradise that you won’t want to leave, I promise! 

Colmar is a picturesque town in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, close to the border with Germany . It is remarkable for its picturesque architecture and rich culture.

Colmar has many gorgeous gems, but I think one of the prettiest in Little Venice is where the scenic Lauch River flows through the town.

Stunning half-timbered houses line both sides of the river, and I’d recommend taking a boat ride through this section of the town for a beautiful treat.

The town’s architecture is historic and postcard-pretty, and highlights of visiting Colmar include the Old Town, the Pfister House, Route des Vins, Koighus, the Dominican Church, and Saint Martin Church.

5. Champagne-Ardenne

The birthplace of champagne is a trendy spot with wine trail tourists, and it’s a gorgeous, laid-back, and tranquil destination.

Champagne-Ardenne, located northeast of the country, has miles of Champagne trail routes, pristine and scenic countryside, medieval chateaus, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.

Visit the region’s capital, Troyes, for its impressive art and architecture and Reims, for its famous cathedral and vast network of underground wine cellars. 

A video on our trip to France (with drone footage)…

Giverny is a riverside rural idyll located on the borders of Normandy in northern France (only an hour’s drive from Paris). It is most famous for being the birthplace of impressionism.

The small village was once Claude Monet’s cherished country retreat , and now his postcard-pretty pink shutter-board house and beautiful country gardens are open to the public.

Planted by Monet himself, the walled water garden (which inspired so many of his famous paintings) features white and purple wisterias, water lilies, weeping willows, bamboo, and the iconic green Japanese bridge!

7. The Dordogne

The Dordogne (which lies to the southwest of the country) is an exceptionally picturesque place that in my opinion will please even the most discerning of travellers! 

The region’s long roads and rivers wind through unspoiled pastures, spectacular gorges, charming medieval towns and villages of rich historical heritage. It’s also very famous for its prehistoric cave paintings in the Vézère Valley, like those in Lascaux Cave.

Visit the sacred pilgrim’s monuments en route to Santiago de Compostela, sample the local wines still produced by many of the chateaus, and explore the ancient fortified towns, such as the visually striking Beynac-et-Cazenac.

8. Burgundy

Burgundy is a popular tourist destination in east-central France. It is renowned for producing some of the world’s best wines. The region is also tranquil, with a pristine natural environment and dozens of picturesque villages to explore.

Burgundy is a historical area home to many of Europe’s most impressive Romanesque structures, including the Fontenay Abbey and Basilica of Vezelay. There are also many gorgeous castles to explore, including my favourites, the magnificent Chateau d’Ancy le Franc and Chateau de Cormatin.

One of the region’s most impressive natural assets is Morvan National Park , located in the heart of Burgundy. It has more than 1,000 square miles of pristine wilderness and is an excellent location for camping or hiking. 

9. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is located right on the border between Germany and France, and it is a popular stop-off for exploring Luxembourg and Belgium .

I love that the famous and scenic heritage city has both countries’ charming characteristics and cultural flavours.

It’s a picturesque and romantic place with an energetic buzz, famous for its riverfront half-timbered houses, gothic cathedral, and evident fondness for flowers!

It also makes an excellent base for those wishing to visit the nearby Black Forest or the River Rhine.

10. Corsica

Corsica is a stunning island in the Mediterranean just off the coast of southern France. It is a popular tourist destination known for its many pristine beaches, incredible scenery, and harbour town resorts.

More than 1,000 km of coastline surrounding Corsica provides visitors plenty of  boating and swimming opportunities. The Mediterranean climate is a major drawcard, with the weather warm enough to enjoy the water all year round.

The most beautiful spots to visit in Corsica include the beaches of Désert des Agriates (white sand and crystal clear blue water), the Perched villages of la Balagne, Scandola Nature Reserve, the Gorges of Restonica & Tavignano, and the Fortress town of Bonifacio.

The Lavezzi Islands, located between Corsica and Sardinia, are also worth visiting.

11. Palace of Versailles

A wealthy suburb of Paris, Versailles is an important administrative centre and a proud tourist attraction.

It’s most famous for its chateau, the hugely grand and ornate Palace of Versailles, which once housed France’s kings (including the ill-fated Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette).

Both the immaculate palace and manicured gardens are extraordinary. The palace offers a beautifully preserved insight into the lives of 18th-century French royalty before the start of the legendary French Revolution.

12. Annecy 

The French Alps are probably best known for their up-market ski resorts, but the region is also home to some very attractive towns that make for lovely places to visit in both summer and winter.

One that stands out is Annecy, also known as the ‘Venice of Savoie. ‘ This gorgeous and romantic city is interspersed with small canals and has a postcard-pretty 14th-century Chateau.

With its unique central focal point, the backdrop of beautiful mountains, and a stunning Old Town home to cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-coloured houses, Annecy is one of the most photogenic I’ve ever been to!

13. Mont Saint-Michel and the rest of the Normandy region

Second only to the Eiffel Tower as France’s best-loved landmark, Mont St-Michel is a rocky, peaked island connected by a causeway to northwest France.

It’s an imposing sight amid sprawling sandbanks and powerful tides, but the heritage site is chiefly celebrated for its unique Gothic-style Benedictine abbey.

Directly below the grand monastery is a medieval village with winding streets dotted with small houses and souvenir shops. You should also spend a few days exploring the rest of Normandy, as it’s such a pretty region.

It has history and lush green landscapes, except for dry-stone farmhouses, chalk-white cliffs, half-timbered buildings, and picturesque chateaus. The historically important site of the Normandy Landing beaches and the famous Bayeux tapestry are also located here.

14. Brittany

Brittany is a coastal region filled with jagged coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, quaint coastal fishing villages, majestic chateaux, and dozens of medieval towns just waiting to be explored.

I recommend visiting the area to enjoy the authentic culture, incredible scenery, delicious food, and a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere.

Along Brittany’s coastline are dozens of beautiful places to visit, including the cliffs of Pointe du Raz, Cap Fréhel, and the Crozon peninsula.

The beaches are also a major drawcard, with Ploumanac’h, Morgat, and Quiberon being the most popular. If you head inland, you can visit Brocéliande forest, parish closes, or the fantastic megalithic standing stones at Carnac.

Lyon is the country’s second-most important city after Paris. It is a historic city with a rich culture and beautiful architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage city is home to some of the world’s most precious ancient ruins, Roman structures, and medieval buildings.

Lyon is located at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers, which is scenic and one reason it is a romantic destination.

Lyon’s many narrow, winding streets and ancient buildings enhance its romance. There are dozens of beautiful places within Lyon, but we loved the atmospheric Quartier Saint-Jean because of its medieval buildings and cobblestone lanes.

The Place Neuve Saint-Jean is also a must-see. It is a picturesque square with many shops and traditional restaurants — the perfect location for a romantic dinner.

Other gorgeous spots in Lyon include Colline de la Croix-Rousse (a historic neighbourhood built on sloping streets), Presqu’ile District (stunning architecture and town squares), and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere.

17. Rhône-Alpes

Rhône-Alpes is a beautiful region located in the southeast of the country. Its diverse landscape includes mountain ranges (including the famous Mont Blanc), winding canyons, gentle valleys dotted with hundreds of farms and vineyards, and its dormant volcano, the Puy-de-Dôme.

It isn’t easy to describe the incredible and tranquil beauty of this country’s natural environment, so I would say it has to be experienced first-hand to be appreciated!

There are dozens of spectacular locations to visit, including Gorges de l’Ardeche — a series of winding gorges in Ardèche. Lake Geneva is another must-see location if you are visiting the region.

It is a vast natural lake shared between Switzerland and France. It’s the perfect location for boating, swimming and water skiing in the warmer months.

Another one of my favourite locations is Les Pertes de le Valserine — a tranquil river walk in Bellegarde sur Valserine. It showcases the region’s natural beauty, including its varied flora and fauna. Rhône-Alpes is also home to many charming towns and cities. They include Lyon (Rhône), Grenoble (Isère), Saint-Étienne (Loire), Valence (Drôme), and Chambéry (Savoie).

The best time to visit Rhone-Alpes is during the summer months (July to August) and ski season (December to March). 

18. Auvergne

Auvergne is a unique region located in the country’s centre. Now part of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the landscape in Auvergne has been shaped by ancient volcanoes into a series of mountain ridges, craters and valleys called the Chaîne des Puys. The landscape is dramatic, impressive, and very tranquil.

It’s a slow-paced part of France, home to many ski resorts, farms, and country towns. Because this area is mostly rural, there are multiple areas of pristine natural beauty to enjoy.

Auvergne’s volcanic past is evident, with substantial craggy rock outcrops and abundant natural hot springs. The region’s largest city, Clermont-Ferrand, also showcases the region’s volcanic history well.

The best option for viewing the region’s spectacular mountains is the Panoramique des Dômes, the youngest volcano in the Chaîne des Puys. Its high viewing platform offers visitors incredible views.

I personally stayed at the wonderful Volca Lodges , which offers eco-friendly glamping style accommodation with hot tubs on the balconies overlooking the spectacular countryside (pictured above).

19. Midi-Pyrénées 

The south of France has a well-deserved reputation for being a stunning spot! The region encompasses the French Pyrenees, including the stunning Pic du Midi de Bigorre, Cirque de Gavarnie, and Néouvielle Massif.

The mountains are gorgeous, with many valleys and foothills to explore. Gorgeous bodies of water include Lake Gaube, Lac de Genos, and Bethmale Lake.

The lakes in Midi-Pyrénées are fantastic for camping and hiking. There are countless charming villages to explore, including Conques, Rocamadour, and St-Bertrand-de-comminges. Toulon is the largest city in the region, packed with art, culture, and incredible architecture.

20. Languedoc

Languedoc is a historical coastal region in southern France. It stretches from Provence to the Pyrenees Mountains and the border with Spain. This part of France benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate and has a pristine natural environment.

It is one of the most geographically diverse regions in the country, with wetlands, mountains, sandy beaches, and arid stretches of land near the southern border.

The coastline has many incredible beaches and bustling cities such as Montpellier and Nîmes. Venturing inland, you will find the wild country of the Grands Causses and Cévennes. Heading south, the landscape becomes drier, and the Spanish influence becomes more apparent.

I would highly recommend exploring Pont du Gard (a Roman aqueduct), the Cap d’Agde seaside resort, Cité de Carcassonne (a medieval citadel), Gorges du Tarn, and Château de Quéribus (a ruined castle in the commune of Cucugnan).

21. Gorge du Verdon

Sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of Europe, it is a 25-kilometer long and 700-metre-deep natural canyon located in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence in southeastern France.

Gorges du Verdon is named after the wonderful green water of the Verdon River (“vert” is French for green).

This incredible natural gorge has been attracting tourists to the region since the mid-19th century and is still extremely popular. Here, you can kayak, go canoeing, go for a canyon walk, hike or even go for a ‘water walk.’

Located in the French Riviera on the Mediterranean Sea, Nice la Belle, as the locals know it, receives 4 million tourists every year. It’s a gorgeous and elegant city where the beautiful and the well-heeled hang out in droves.

Apart from its charming, quaint streets of Old Town, the (pebbly) beach, fine hotels, gorgeous boutique and panoramic views, it is famous for the popular Carnival de Nice, which I would highly recommend trying to time your visit around if you can (it takes place February to March).

When here, I would also highly recommend taking a day trip to Saint Tropez and glitzy Monaco. Alternatively, you can stay local and make the most of the beach and the town. Promenade des Anglais is a great option if you want to have a stroll or a jog! 

53 thoughts on “22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in France”

Awesome and lovely post! Lots of stunning shots of very beautiful places. Love this blog so much!

I’m from Vietnam. can you please suggest a 5 day itinerary of places in France and what are the places. And give me suggest the cost for 5 days. Thanks

All these places are amazing & beautiful. Nice picture collection as well.

Wow, amazing pictures. Something more to see than Paris in France! Thanks 🙂

Hi me and my boyfriend are travelling to France in September arriving at Calais first .We will be driving and hopefully wanting to see as much of France in 5 days as we can .Any suggestions as to where to go to see some beautiful seenary

This is an awesome article i love it, thnx Becky Padmore for this beautiful article. France is one of the most beautiful country in the world and it is also include in top ten beautiful countries in the world.

France is considered as one of the most beautiful country in the world and tourists appreciate this country for its heavenly beauty!

I think instead of visiting Strasbourg try to visit the small villages down south on the way to Colmar, it’s one of the best road trip I’ve done in France. The name of the road is ‘la route des vins’ (wine’s road). Some villages are definitely much more beautiful than Strasbourg.

France has it all, wine,food and women

really very nice….

My girlfriend and I will be traveling to France in December. We will be flying into Milan, Italy first and then driving into France. My question is, what part (North or South) of France would you recommend seeing during the winter? We both are looking for the small village, but we will be visiting Paris sometime during our visit.

Hi, nice article …. can you please suggest a 8 days itinerary of places in france and what are the places we can cover from the list above in 8-9 days

France is beautiful

it is of course

Agreed!! Loire Valley is the best. With the numerous Chateaux and vineyards, one just falls in love with the region. So much to see and do!!!

I have only been to Paris years ago and would like to explore more of France. Thinking of going there for a week with husband (no car) where would you suggest we could squeeze in for a week with a few day trips thrown in. Hard to choose from the blog which is the nicest area to go.

We’d suggest basing yourselves in the Luberon area of Provence and then including day trips to Baux-de-Provence, St. Rémy and the walled city of Avignon. It’s a truly beautiful area which will give you a taste of a perfectly preserved traditional France.

Thanks Graham for this helpful info regarding where to visit in France. Do you have your own website? Maria NS, Canada

Dahh..I see this is it 🙂 Cheers, Maria

I am on a 7 day trip to Europe taking a delivery of Mercedes at Stuttgart. I will be driving from Stuttgart to Paris for 4 days in April 2014 and would like to spend 3 days in Paris. Any suggestions on places which we can visit along the way. Please let me know. I have no clue on what to plan and places to visit.

Hi Ram Ram we would suggest stopping at Strasbourg, Metz and the Champagne region (including Reims). Enjoy your trip!

Nice post. Awesome images.

This will surely help in exploring france.

France is also a great place for a honeymoon, it’s very romantic and has some really gorgeous countryside.

I loved the french riveria… Its just beautiful and awesome. I went to NICE and Cannes. Attended festivals. It was out of this world

Great post! My wife and I are heading to France for four nights and five days this summer as part of a mini-European tour through Belgium and Holland as well.

I think it’s going to be difficult for us to hit all of these spots this time, however, especially as we’ll probably lose two days to Paris. Any recommendations as to which of these places should not be missed on a first visit to France?

Hi Ed, If you’re going to Paris then you could include a trip to Versailles without too much difficulty. Then I would personally try to fit in as much as the Côte d’Azur and then some places in the Provence countryside including Baux-de-Provence, St. Rémy and Avignon. Hope this helps!

Hi, what about Lyon? Would you recommend going there?

Hi Gwen, Lyon is a lovely city but head further to Burgundy and you’ll find some of the finest French countryside.

I really liked Lyon, particularly the older area and cathedral. Didn’t get to see a lot of countryside, ply that from the train on way to paris. But I could easily see living in Lyon.

i love going to france . i goes once in every year

i love visiting france .once in a year i always o there

France is so beautiful, thanks for sharing these amazing places.

Some truly inspiring photos here – I don’t know which one is the best !

Thank you. Only last week I was looking for places to visit in France, near to Paris. More info about Loire valley will be welcome.

I just wanted to say I have been a long time follower and I appreciate all of your writing. A lot of work must go into putting out quality content like this. Thanks again.

WHen i see all those places i really like to visit France.

soooooooooo helpful

hi becky i like your informatoin about france thank you

A good choice but no mention of the Pays Basque ! La plus belle pays !

I love when i’m france it’s the best country the best in the world

i have been to France before and loved it! So pretty!

loved looking at the potoes

Hi i loved looking at this photos it made me fell like i was there i have fished my home work now thanks to you.

yup i have now gotten some of my homework done bow i just need to write a booklet on a tour f france!!!! helpful? definetly. France would be on the top ten list of places i would go to.

Thankyou for this helped me lots.

thanks i have a school project on france and this really helped 🙂

Becky, these photos are unbelievable! WOW!

I’ve been to about half on this list, with the Loire Valley being my favourite. Now you’ve got me wanting to go back to see the rest! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks, it was very helpful 😉

I have been to lots of different countries but not France,maybe its time I did , looks interesting.

I LOVE France! thanks for sharing! Been to most of the places on this list…but there’s still so much more to see… I would like to add La Rochelle to this list as it’s my fav city in France. Really lovely!

Hey thanks Yvonne, yes it was very hard to choose just ten! Thanks for the comment we’ve just added a link to an article about La Rochelle as one of our writers went there and loved it too!

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20 Beautiful Places to Visit in France — From Normandy to the French Riviera

The best places to visit in France range from iconic landmarks to charming villages.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Eduardo_oliveros/Getty Images

Many things entice travelers to visit France — food, wine, fashion, architecture, and natural beauty among them. There’s something wonderful to eat, drink, see, and do in every corner of this Western European nation. It’s hard not to fall in love with Paris . The glamorous beaches along the Côte d'Azur are legendary. Provence also packs a punch with fragrant lavender fields, the hilltop villages of the Luberon , and vineyards. Vines and grand chateaux mix in the Loire Valley . Truth be told, the number of dazzling places within the country is actually quite dizzying, but we’re more than happy to help point you in some of the most photogenic directions. Scroll on for 20 of the best places to visit in France.

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Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in the world , Gordes draws heaps of tourists who descend upon this idyllic Luberon village in the hopes of capturing the perfect shot of its cobbled lanes, time-worn churches, and 12th-century Sénanque Abbey framed by lavender fields.

Palace of Versailles

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Whether you’re a film buff, love history, or simply want to tick one of France’s most famous landmarks off your sightseeing list, the grandeur of Versailles never fails to impress. The palace is home to the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and many other opulent rooms. Outside are the magnificent gardens, fountains, and sprawling park.

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Camargue doesn’t look or feel like anywhere else in southern France. This wild region between the Mediterranean Sea and the two branches of the Rhône River delta brims with the untamed natural beauty of salt marshes, reed beds, free-roaming white horses, and hundreds of bird species — most notably, pink flamingos.

Eiffel Tower

Built for the 1889 World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower is an enduring symbol of Paris. It’s one thing to see the famous landmark in films, television shows, and photographs, but it’s quite another to get a close-up look at this incredible feat of ingenuity in real life. The twinkly lights at night only add to the romance of it all.

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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Located about half a mile offshore from tourist-laden Cannes, Île Sainte-Marguerite reflects a more low-key side of the French Riviera with lovely scenery at every turn. The largest of the Lérins Islands has beautiful rocky beaches, turquoise waters, and a eucalyptus forest, plus an underwater sculpture museum.

Châteaux of the Loire Valley

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Part of the historical and architectural fabric of the country, the châteaux of the Loire Valley are an enduring reminder of Renaissance resplendence. Impressive from both a design and landscaping perspective, these regal landmarks range from palaces with sprawling gardens (like Château de Chambord) to smaller castles.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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Tucked on the eastern side of a forested peninsula, the exclusive commune of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long captivated artists such as Henri Matisse, writers, and well-heeled holiday-goers with its spellbinding beauty. Expect exquisite villas hidden by lush vegetation, breathtaking beaches with clear waters for snorkeling, hiking trails, and a yacht-filled harbor.

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Situated just south of Colmar in the Alsace region of France, Eguisheim looks like a medieval village you’d see on the cover of a storybook with a concentric plan of narrow streets, half-timbered houses, bubbling fountains, centuries-old castles, and wine caves.

Louvre Museum

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No list of the best places to visit in France would be complete without mentioning the Louvre. The most patronized museum in the world is a historic landmark in its own right with an eye-catching exterior and rooms filled with priceless works of art including the "Mona Lisa" and the Venus de Milo.

Strasbourg Cathedral

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Strasbourg Cathedral is widely regarded as one the most outstanding examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture (though, for accuracy, the remaining parts of the original structure are Romanesque). It’s a beautiful landmark with heaps of history and visual appeal that’s well worth visiting while in the Alsace region.

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Straddling the French-Italian border and extending into Switzerland, Mont Blanc (which translates to “White Mountain”) rises 15,771 feet, making it the highest mountain in the Alps and the second most prominent peak in Europe. People come from near and far to go skiing, ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car, and even attempt to climb to the summit.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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Lavender fields have come to define Provence. This purple-hued visual is splashed across the front of virtually every postcard in the region. Many of those photos were taken on the Valensole Plateau, which erupts in a fragrant and vibrant bloom each summer.

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The charming hilltop district of Montmartre in Paris’s 18th arrondissement feels more like a small village than a big city. Cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, windmills, and performances from local musicians give it a quaint atmosphere. Its crown jewel, the iconic white-domed Sacré-Cœur commands attention.

Saint-Tropez

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Few places shine quite like Saint-Tropez. Celebrities, artists, and jet setters have been flocking to this cinematic holiday hotspot on the French Riveria since the 1960s. The glamorous beach clubs, mega yachts, and charming old fishing quarter keep the crowds thick every summer. 

Belle-Île-en-Mer

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The largest of the islands off the coast of Brittany in northwest France, the aptly named Belle-Île-en-Mer is a beautiful destination with uncrowded beaches, enchanting villages, and rugged cliffs. The jagged rock formation known as Les Aiguilles de Port Coton even inspired Monet to pick up his paintbrush.

Porquerolles

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While it’s impossible to pick a favorite spot along the French Riveria, there’s a lot to love about Porquerolles. The largest of the Îles d'Hyères offers peaceful beaches, calm waters, rolling vineyards, cycling paths through the countryside, old forts, and an off-the-beaten-path vibe.

Veuve Clicquot Champagne House

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For fans of bubbly, few things are as fabulous as a trip to the Champagne region of France. Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot tops the list of the most significant and celebrated producers. A visit to this world-famous house in Reims entails touring the historic cellars and, of course, sipping the finest sparkling wine.

Arc De Triomphe

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Everyone who visits France’s capital for the first time heads over to the Arc De Triomphe for that “I went to Paris" photo. It’s worth joining the masses in admiring this famous monument that stands tall at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

Courtesy of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

Admittedly, an overnight stay at the luxurious Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc at the tip of Cap d’Antibes isn’t in the budget for most travelers. But that shouldn’t preclude you from visiting. Reserve a terrace table at the restaurant to savor Mediterranean cuisine alongside stunning views of the sea and the rock-framed infinity pool.

D-Day Landing Beaches

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Normandy is closely associated with WWII — specifically, the fateful day the Allied troops made landfall at the D-Day beaches, an operation that ultimately led to the liberation of France (and eventually Western Europe) from Nazi occupation. Today, travelers can visit the many museums and memorials along the 50-mile stretch of coastline.

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Best places to visit in france.

France is home to some of the most lively cities, bucolic villages and renowned wine regions on the globe. U.S. News considered factors like variety of attractions, lodging, weather and culinary scenes to create this ranking of the best places to visit in France. Whether you're seeking an action-packed sightseeing adventure or a relaxing wine retreat, you'll find a fun French vacation here. To influence next year's ranking, vote below for your favorite destinations in France.

French Alps

Montpellier, aix-en-provence, chamonix-mont-blanc, loire valley, carcassonne.

As the world's best place to visit , it's no surprise that the electrifying City of Light tops this list. France's capital city is a year-round tourist destination with iconic attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower and incredible architecture (think: the dazzling Basilique du Sacré-Coeur). Paris also offers unparalleled dining and shopping scenes, plus more museums than you could hope to visit in one trip. Keep in mind, Paris is often flooded with tourists and room rates can be pricey. If you're looking for a deal, travel in winter or early spring.

If your ideal French vacation involves a little more nature and a little less city, head to the French Alps. Here, you'll find some of the best ski slopes in Europe, as well as beautiful scenery that rivals any work of art or architecture. In summer, the typically snow-covered mountains thaw just enough to create perfect conditions for hiking and biking. Enchanting villages sit at the base of the range, offering several places to unwind when you've had enough fun on the slopes or trails.

Glamorous Nice occupies a picturesque spot along the French Riviera. Beach bums and culture hounds alike will enjoy the city's pebbly shores, engaging museums, boutique shops and Baroque-style palaces. Be sure to stroll along the coastline's Promenade des Anglais and pick up some fresh flowers and produce at the vibrant Cours Saleya market, located in old town. You'll likely spend a pretty penny on lodging and beach access, but experiencing Nice is worth it. To save some coin, travel between mid-March and April or from September to October: the area's shoulder seasons.

Known as the "Venice of the Alps" for its many winding canals, this enchanting town overlooks the northern tip of Lake Annecy in southeastern France. Here, travelers can admire the pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets of Vieille Ville, Annecy's Old Town, or explore the town's namesake lake on a boat tour. Meanwhile, couples won't want to miss a chance to stroll hand in hand across Annecy's romantic Pont des Amours (Lover's Bridge). Just don't forget to allot time to visit Annecy's historic structures, including Palais de l'Île and the Château d’Annecy, the former residence of the Counts of Geneva.

Sunny Montpellier glows with a combination of old world charm and a trendy university lifestyle. This city in the south of France evokes Parisian appeal, with Haussmann architecture and stylish promenades. And like Paris, adornment is everywhere in Montpellier, from fashionable boutiques to street art to France's oldest botanical garden. Plus, since Montpellier is located less than 10 miles from the coast of the Mediterranean, a beach break is always close at hand. Once the sun sets, take part in the city's youthful nightlife scene, which includes everything from music halls to dance clubs.

The capital of the Alsace region offers the perfect mix of French and German cultures thanks to its position on the France-Germany border. While here, travelers should see Strasbourg's Gothic-style cathedral and stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Petite France quarter, with its half-timbered houses and postcard-worthy waterways. Plus, those with an interest in politics can tour several important European institutions, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. For an extra dose of magic, arrive in December to see one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets.

Quaint, charming Aix-en-Provence is a university city known for its tree-lined boulevards, cute cafes and lively markets. Life moves at a more leisurely pace here than in other French cities, meaning it's the perfect place for travelers to get lost in the scenic streets. Make sure to add Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and Le Grand Marché – two of the city's top attractions – to your itinerary. You can also see where artist Paul Cézanne (an Aix-en-Provence native) painted some of his masterpieces at Atelier de Cezanne, or venture outside of the city to see the Provencal scenes that inspired him.

It's easy to see why Colmar, located in the heart of Alsace's wine region, is considered one of France's most beautiful cities. Colorful houses that look as if they belong in a fairy tale line the Little Venice district, where you can take a boat tour through Colmar's canals or reach boutiques and eateries on foot. The setting is picturesque regardless of when you vacation here, but if you want to be awed, visit Colmar at night when lights illuminate the city during annual events like the Colmar International Festival, Alsace's wine fair and Colmar's Christmas market.

If you love to ski, chances are you'll enjoy shredding powder at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. In the bustling Chamonix (the main place to stay if you want to ski at Mont Blanc), you'll have easy access to one of the longest off-piste runs in the world (Vallée Blanche) and rugged, challenging slopes. But this destination, which hosted the 1924 Winter Olympics, offers more than just top-notch skiing. Chamonix is also a great place to go hiking, mountain biking and whitewater rafting. For some family-friendly fun, visit the town's adventure park to zip down its Alpine coaster and various slides.

Another popular wine region, Burgundy is home to rolling hills, superior cuisine and an array of vineyards. Those visiting Burgundy must spend time exploring the medieval villages, historical abbeys and museums that call this area home. Dijon, the region's history-rich capital, makes a great home base for touring the area. And, of course, you can't leave without trying the region's wine, which mainly uses pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, and dining on some of its rich cuisine.

Dubbed la Ville Rose (the Pink City) due to the prominence of distinctive clay bricks in its architecture, Toulouse is a feast for the eyes. Throughout this city, which is located in the South of France, you'll find marvels like the neoclassical Le Capitole on the main square, the stately Basilica of Saint-Sernin (an 11th-century UNESCO site) and the Hôtel d'Assézat, which houses a noteworthy art gallery. What's more, several canals with shady footpaths pass through the city, including the idyllic Canal du Midi. For some of the best views of Toulouse, take a cruise on the River Garonne, or just sunbathe on its banks.

Located on the French Riviera about 8 miles east of Nice, the tiny hilltop village of Èze makes for an excellent day trip. The best way to spend your time in this medieval town is meandering through its cobbled streets that look as though they've been pulled from a postcard. In doing so, you'll find picturesque views of the coast, as well as luxury hotels and shops from another era. Top sights include the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption and Jardin Exotique d'Èze, as well as the walking path of Nietzsche, who was inspired to write here. Before leaving town, stop by the Fragonard Parfumeur factory for a fragrant tour.

While it may not be as well-known as big-name cities like Paris, Lyon competes with the best of them. Despite being the third-largest city in France, Lyon is much calmer and less touristy than other similarly sized destinations. The streets are filled with public art, including the city's famous trompe l'oeil murals, and there are museums that focus on everything from movies to history. Plus, it's surrounded by wineries and home to 4,000-plus restaurants, several of which boast Michelin stars, making it especially appealing to oenophiles and foodies.

This wine-producing hub woos travelers with its riverbank location and surrounding countryside. With nearly 300,000 acres of vineyards, Bordeaux offers ample choices for those looking to sip some of the best (typically bold red) wines in the world. In the city center, marvel at the Gothic-style Basilique Saint-Michel, walk across the Pont de Pierre (a beautiful stone bridge), snap a photo of the iconic Place de la Bourse and enjoy the Jardin Public's pathways and flora.

Despite its war-filled past, this region in northern France is also a place of great beauty and culture. Étretat's white cliffs are a great place to take in the area's natural scenery. Then, visit the region's capital city, Rouen, to admire works of art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts and stroll past the quaint half-timbered houses. Be sure to sample some of the city's culinary specialties to see why it is now a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Or, see some of the remnants of Normandy's heavy history at the D-Day Landing Beaches and The Bayeux Tapestry.

For a romantic escape, visit the Loire Valley in central France. Situated along the Loire River, the area is peppered with châteaux, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, farms and wineries renowned for their sauvignon blanc. The region itself is even a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and historical villages. Plan to spend some time in a few of the valley's laid-back cities and towns, such as Orléans and Saumur, and you can't miss the emblematic Château de Chambord.

In the foothills of southern France's Pyrenees mountains sits charming Lourdes, where in 1858, a young girl named Bernadette Soubirous claimed to have seen several apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Today, it is an important Catholic pilgrimage site, with millions making the journey here every year. But one does not have to be religious to enjoy the stunning architecture and fascinating history behind top sights like the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes or Château Fort de Lourdes. Meanwhile, for incredible views of the town and its surrounding peaks, take a funicular ride to the top of Pic du Jer.

Teeming with joie de vivre (a French phrase used to express an exuberant enjoyment of life), Antibes on the Côte d'Azur is packed with great beaches, gorgeous art and gigantic yachts. Antibes was beloved by many notable figures like Pablo Picasso, whose works can be found in his former studio (which happens to be an ancient Greek castle) that is now the Musée Picasso. The museum is located in Antibes' Old Town, a picturesque district full of local shops, markets and some of the city's best restaurants. The scenic, 3-mile Le Sentier du Littoral takes visitors from Old Town to the chic Cap d'Antibes area.

Often called "France's Isle of Beauty," Corsica features diverse landscapes and a unique culture that make it seem like a miniature continent. The Mediterranean island's clear blue water and white sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling and kayaking, while its mountainous terrain and dense forests provide ample opportunities to hike trails like the highly regarded (albeit grueling) GR20. Those looking to take in some history can visit the Maison Bonaparte museum to see Napoleon's birthplace. What's more, Corsica offers a one-of-a-kind food scene that showcases various local delicacies, such as lonzu (dry-cured pork tenderloin) and brocciu (cheese).

Famous for its annual film festival in May, Cannes is just as impressive (and much less congested) at other times of the year. Cannes is another French Riviera hot spot that welcomes travelers looking for a little relaxation (think: sun-soaked beaches and meandering walks through the steep streets of Le Suquet, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods). Visitors can sightsee as they stroll along La Croisette, a nearly 2-mile-long promenade, or sit down for an exquisite meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Feeling lucky? Stop by one of Cannes' casinos.

Northwestern France's Brittany region stands out from the rest of the country in more ways than one. Locals are proud and protective of their Celtic heritage, including their unique language, traditions and festivals. As a result, visitors will find many well-preserved historical sites throughout the area, including prehistoric megaliths and medieval towns like Saint-Malo, a popular port town with a 12th-century citadel. Brittany also features breathtaking coastlines with fantastic beaches that are known for their phenomenal waves for surfing, snorkeling and dolphin-spotting opportunities.

To see some of France's most spectacular art and architecture, head to Avignon. This city in southeastern France is full of stunning structures, including the 14th-century Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, and the arched bridge, Pont Saint-Bénezet (also called Pont d'Avignon). A number of can't-miss museums are spread throughout Avignon as well, such as the Musée Angladon, which houses works by highly regarded artists like Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh. Visit in July to attend the Festival d'Avignon, one of the world's largest performing arts festivals.

You'll feel as if you've stepped back in time during a stroll within the fortified walls of Carcassonne – in fact, the city even inspired a board game of the same name. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city was restored to its former medieval glory in the 1800s. In the upper, older part of town known as La Cité, you can tour storybook streets and magnificent cathedrals. And in the lower and newer (but equally historic) Bastide Saint-Louis area, you'll find various museums, shops and cafes. Before you leave, take a mini boat cruise on Canal du Midi.

Vincent Van Gogh fans may recognize the streetscapes of Arles: This small city in Provence inspired some of the artist's best-known works with its bright colors and rustic feel. Art aficionados can walk in Van Gogh's footsteps and explore his favorite haunts on a walking tour through this romantic city or visit the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles. Beyond this noteworthy connection, Arles is renowned for its Roman ruins, including a two-tiered amphitheater, the Alyscamps necropolis and the Constantine Baths. And as the gateway to the Camargue region, Arles is a great base for visitors looking to explore this marshy, flamingo-filled area.

France's oldest and second-largest city has become an exciting, up-and-coming tourist destination. Marseille has a number of sights to see, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and Château d'If, the ominous prison made famous by Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo." When the weather is nice, the rocky cliffs and beaches of the Calanques are excellent for swimming, boating and hiking. No trip to Marseille would be complete without a stop by the Mucem, a museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization. Plus, its rooftop terrace makes the perfect vantage point to admire the city.

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12 Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris (Plus Map!)

When it comes to picking the best places to visit in France , there are many to choose from. Besides Paris, France is home to many regions to love and well worth exploring.

As a French-American, I have spent most of my life visiting France. I love it there and what I love most is how diverse France is. It is so much more than the big city of Paris (still well worth a visit.). I have a few favorite places that I recommend to everyone to visit in France.

And if I may say one thing — if you go all the way to France, do try to get outside of Paris. There is so much that awaits outside of the capital city.

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When it comes to planning your time in France, you’ll likely fly into Paris’s CDG airport. It’s a great way to kick off a trip exploring the “quartiers” of Paris, and enjoying the food, shopping, and museums. And now after, it’s time to get out and explore.

From countryside escapes to seaside shores, there is so much more to explore besides Paris. Read on to see the best places to visit in France that are beyond Paris. I hope this list gives you a few ideas on just where to go.

Best Places to Visit in France Besides Paris

A helpful map for where to go in france.

I put together a Google Map for all of my favorite places in France to visit. It’s separated by regions first with the orange pins. Then the blue pins are all places you could consider visiting in those regions. Open the maps to be able to fully explore.

Bordeaux is a renowned wine-producing region located in southwestern France, known for its exceptional vineyards and winemaking tradition. It’s literally surrounded by hundreds of vineyards and wineries in the region. What most people think of is the city of Bordeaux itself!

Bordeaux is a historic and beautiful city, with so many fun day trips nearby to places like Saint Emilion . It is the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and is situated along the River Garonne. The city is known for its beautiful 18th-century architecture, including neoclassical buildings, grand boulevards, and picturesque squares.

I’ve had the chance to spend extended time in Bordeaux when we lived there for six weeks last year. I absolutely love how walkable this city in France is and the ease of using the metro line. There are so many fun things to do in Bordeaux , lovely coffee shops , and incredible dining. And don’t miss these best hotels in Bordeaux for a stay.

If you’re coming from Paris, you’re also in luck — there is a super fast train that is directly right into the city center. Bordeaux is one of my first recommendations for those wanting to get out of Paris, no car is needed.

Popular Places to Visit in the Bordeaux Region:

• Bordeaux City
• Saint Emilion
• Soulac Sur Mer
• The Medoc Wine Region

The Alsace region is located in northeastern France, bordering Germany to the east. It is known for its picturesque villages, charming architecture, and distinctive culture, which bears the influence of both French and German traditions. All of this is due to its historical frontier position on the Franco-German border.

This may be one of my top areas of France to explore year-round. Alsace is home to two very well-known cities, both Strasbourg and Colmar. These Alsatian towns, near incredible vineyards, have lovely historic centers to explore. You can also take a direct train to Strasbourg from Paris which I always recommend using as a homebase for this region. (Here are the best hotels in Strasbourg. )

Come late November to December, this whole region is iconic for its Christmas Markets. The Strasbourg Christmas Market is the most famous, followed by the Colmar Christmas Market . It’s a bucket list experience in France!

The rest of the year is equally lovely. You could rent a car as well and get into the smaller towns of Alsace like Riquewihr, Obernai, and Kayserberg. But for ease, the direct to Strasbourg is from Paris.

Popular Places to Visit in the Alsace Region:

The dordogne and the lot.

The Dordogne, also known as the Périgord, is a picturesque region located in the southwest of France. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, historic villages, prehistoric sites, and rich culinary traditions. The Dordogne region boasts diverse landscapes, including rolling countryside, lush river valleys, limestone cliffs, and dense forests.

The Lot is a department in the Occitanie region of southern France, known for its stunning natural landscapes, picturesque medieval villages with timbered houses, and rich history. It borders right next to Dordogne and you can easily visit both on a trip.

I’m partial to this area, my grandmother was raised in The Lot so I’ve spent many trips back visiting this area. But my absolute favorite is being in the heart of the Dordogne Valley near Sarlat-la-Canéda . It is truly one of the most beautiful regions of France that American tourists completely skip over.

The amount of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (which literally translates to “the most beautiful villages of France”) here is incredible. There are chateaux, incredible dining, and a lot to visit in day trip form like these 7 villages of Dordogne . It honestly feels like a fairy tale.

The caveat with this region is you do need a car to get around. The easiest access is to train directly to Bordeaux and rent a car from there to explore the region.

Popular Places to Visit in the Dordogne Region:

• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• Beynac-et-Cazenac
• La Roque-Gageac

Popular Places to Visit in the Lot Region:

• Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Provence, situated in southeastern France, lies in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur department of France. Often when people think of Provence, they’re mostly thinking of areas like the hilltop villages of the Luberon, the French city of Aix-en-Provence, and nearby countryside towns of Avignon and Arles.

Provence is ever-so-lovely to visit, with each season having a unique experience. The spring through fall months are the best times to visit, where lavender fields bloom and the area becomes very lush. This part of France is known for historical towns, the best farmer’s markets, and historic sights.

When we go, I love to use Saint-Rémy-de-Provence as a home base, there are some lovely hotels here . From there you can easily take a drive to Luberon to visit famous villages like Gordes, Roussillon and more. Having a rental car here is a must to get out to see these areas!

One quintessential part of being in Provence is taking part in famed regional gastronomic dining. So be sure to hunt out a few restaurants beforehand. These charming countryside hotels in Provence all have wonderful stays plus many have restaurants right on the property.

For those wanting to make it out to the Provincial coastline, make your way to the small town of Cassis . Just next to Marseille, Cassis might be my favorite coastal town on the Mediterranean. Super quaint, great beaches and hiking , and lovely restaurants to enjoy here!

Popular Places to Visit in Provence:

• The Luberon (Gordes, Ménerbes, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Roussillon, Oppède, Lourmarin)
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
• Aix-en-Provence

Normandy, situated in northwestern France, is a region of profound historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its pivotal role in the D-Day landings during World War II, the region’s beaches like Omaha and Utah Beach stand as solemn reminders of the Allied invasion.

Normandy’s landscapes are equally diverse, with rolling green countryside, coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque apple orchards. Historic towns such as Rouen, Honfleur, and Bayeux offer glimpses into the region’s rich architectural heritage, featuring medieval and Renaissance buildings and towering Gothic cathedrals.

The iconic Mont Saint-Michel, perched on a rocky island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of medieval architecture. Normandy is celebrated for its culinary traditions, including creamy cheeses like Camembert, apple-based products such as cider and Calvados, and fresh seafood from coastal towns.

It has also inspired Impressionist painters like Monet, with Giverny serving as a testament to the region’s artistic allure. Seaside resorts, Calvados and cider routes, festivals, and peaceful countryside make Normandy a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of northern France.

Popular Places to Visit in Normandy:

• Mont Saint-Michel

One of my favorite, often overlooked, regions of France is the Languedoc . Languedoc-Rousillon, also known as Occitanie, is a captivating region in the south of France that boasts a diverse and culturally rich landscape. From its picturesque Mediterranean coastline with sandy beaches to the rugged Pyrenees Mountains in the west and the rolling vineyard-covered hills of its interior.

Steeped in history, the region features medieval treasures like the walled city of Carcassonne, and it played a significant role in the Cathar movement during the Middle Ages. Carcassonne is an absolute treasure to not miss while in this region.

Languedoc is also renowned for its wine production, with vineyards producing a wide array of wines. Its cultural heritage, celebrated through festivals, music, and the Occitan language, adds depth to the region’s charm, making it a captivating destination for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking a taste of Mediterranean culture.

Languedoc sits right next to Provence, so if you’re looking for something a bit more quiet, this is another option to consider. It’s quieter here, more rugged, but very much worth the visit.

Popular Places to Visit in Languedoc:

• Carcassonne
• Montpellier
• Canal du Midi

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, nestled in the heart of France, is a region of unparalleled beauty and historical significance. It is renowned for its magnificent châteaux, each a testament to different periods of architecture, and its lush vineyards producing some of the country’s finest wines.

The Loire River stands as France’s final untouched waterway, stretching for 1000 miles and winding through nature’s unspoiled landscapes. Along the way, scenic towns, castles, and wineries are here to enjoy.

My family is from Poitiers just south of the Loire Valley. We’ve spent many day trips visiting up into this fairytale land to explore. So many wonderful fortified towns like Chinon and Amboise which you can also easily visit by way of Paris.

In the Loire Valley, you can’t miss impressive castles like Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, Château de Villandry, Château de Azay-le-Rideau, and Château de Amboise are a must-see.

From Paris, I’d rent a car or train into Tours and grab a car there to start a road trip in this area. Public transport is more limited so a car is needed to explore.

Popular Places to Visit in The Loire Valley:

French riviera.

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a captivating stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea in southeastern France. Renowned for its glamour and natural beauty, the French Riviera has stunning azure waters, sun-kissed beaches, and a Mediterranean climate.

The region encompasses glamorous cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, where upscale resorts, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife are well known. The smaller towns of Èze, Saint-Tropez, Antibes, Menton, and Villefranche-Sur-Mer are also well worth a visit.

Beyond the coastal towns, the French Riviera offers picturesque vineyards and scenic hikes in the Alpes-Maritimes. Bucketlist towns like Saint Paul de Vence should not be overlooked when down in this area.

With its combination of cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of luxury, the French Riviera remains a timeless destination. This is probably the most visited area of France after Paris, so try to time your travels for late spring or early fall to skip the crowds!

If you’re coming from Paris, one recommendation is to consider flying to Nice Airport. It’s much quicker and from there you can access most of the coastline by train.

Popular Places to Visit in The French Riviera:

• Villefranche-Sur-Mer
• Saint Paul de Vence

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France is a blend of incredible landscapes, historical cities, and gastronomy. It encompasses a wide array of landscapes, from the majestic French Alps with world-class ski resorts to the idyllic vineyards of the Rhône Valley. The region’s cities, including Lyon (the largest city in this area), Grenoble, and Annecy, offer a vibrant mix of art, culture, and gastronomy, with Lyon being particularly renowned for its culinary excellence.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes also boasts historic towns, such as Vichy and Chambéry, along with numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, making it really great for both adventure seekers and those looking to immerse themselves in the heart of French culture. This area is home to many of the alp destinations of France, like Mont Blanc.

I’m a big fan of this region, mostly because one of my favorite places to visit outside of Paris is here. Annecy, France , in the Haute-Savoie part of this region. It’s one of the most magical places in France to visit, where cobbled streets and winding canals lead to the turquoise-colored lake. With so many things to do in Annecy , I always recommend booking at least 3 nights in a local hotel .

The food here is incredible, very rich, with dishes like raclette and tartiflette. It’s also not very far from Lyon , so you could easily visit both at the same time.

Popular Places to Visit in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region:

• Aix-les-Bains
• Côtes du Rhône

Burgundy, situated in east-central France, is a region that has cultural and gastronomic significance. It is internationally acclaimed for its exceptional wines, with vineyards gracing its picturesque landscapes. The region’s historic treasures include magnificent châteaux and abbeys, such as the Hospices de Beaune and Château de Vougeot, offering glimpses into Burgundy’s rich past.

The cities of Dijon and Beaune showcase well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, while the capital, Dijon, has a vibrant cultural scene. Iconic French dishes like coq au vin and escargot all originate from this region!

You can really visit this region in a few different ways, but most visitors start in Dijon. From there, you can do several day trips depending on how much time you have.

Popular Places to Visit in the Burgundy Region:

• Canal de Bourgogne
• Pays d’Auxois
• Chalon-sur-Saône

Champagne in northeastern France, is the birthplace of the world’s most iconic sparkling wine, Champagne. The cities of Reims and Epernay serve as gateways to this wine lover’s paradise, housing renowned Champagne houses where visitors can explore historic cellars and savor the effervescent nectar.

The region is steeped in history, with the impressive Cathedral of Reims as a symbol of its past significance. Picturesque vineyards, charming villages like Hautvillers and Aÿ, and scenic routes offer glimpses of its countryside charm. Beyond its wine culture, Champagne’s natural beauty, from the Marne River to the Montagne de Reims Natural Park, adds to the region’s allure.

If you’re in Paris, taking the train to Reims is one of the easiest trips to make. The direct train is around 1.5 hours, and Reims itself is a vibrant city to visit. Reims serves as a great base for day trips to other charming towns and villages in the Champagne region, including Epernay, Châlons-en-Champagne, and the vineyard-covered hillsides of the region.

Popular Places to Visit in the Champagne Region:

• Châlons-en-Champagne
• Hautvillers

French Basque Country

French Basque Country is one of my favorite parts of France. We grew up going as kids to Biarritz to see family, and I have some of my fondest memories here. In the southwestern corner of France, it’s a captivating region renowned for its distinct cultural identity and traditions.

Here, Basque culture is vibrantly celebrated, from the use of the Basque language, Euskara, to lively music, dances, and traditional sports like pelota. Coastal gems like Biarritz, with its beautiful beaches and surf culture, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, known for its charming bay and seafood cuisine. The historic city of Bayonne has incredibly well-preserved architecture and annual Fetes de Bayonne festivities.

Inland, Espelette’s red peppers are an icon to the region’s cuisine, while those who want to be outdoors can explore the Pyrenees mountains and the Atlantic coast. This region truly has it all.

I think a proper week or two would do to visit this area if you want to explore all corners of it. For sans a car, I’d take the train from Paris into Biarritz and enjoy one of my favorite Atlantic beach towns in France.

Popular Places to Visit in the French Basque Country:

• Saint-Jean-de-Luz

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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The 26 Most Beautiful Places in France

By Caitlin Morton

From the lavender fields of Provence to the art nouveau buildings of Paris , the most beautiful places in France are as diverse as they are alluring. The country has its fair share of cosmopolitan cities and charming small towns , of course—some of which date as far back as the 9th century—but it also has white-sand beaches, mighty canyons, and snow-capped mountains galore.

Whether you’re drawn to the azure waters of the French Riviera , the dramatic cliffs of Normandy, or the enchanting châteaux of the Loire Valley, this list of the most beautiful places in France is sure to inspire your next storybook adventure.

This article was originally published in 2016. It has been updated with new information.

Lac D’Annecy

Fed by alpine streams and a deep water spring near the town of Annecy, Lac D’Annecy—roughly 30 miles from the Swiss city of Geneva —is among Europe’s most pristine secret lakes . The site is ideal for hiking and swimming, even though the water barely pushes the 75-degree mark at the height of summer. Just one more excuse to warm up with a traditional French Alpine meal come dinnertime.

Located about an hour west of Geneva, the third-largest city in France should move up a few notches on your list. Lyon is known for its innovative restaurants (try La Bijouterie for French dim sum) as well as its beautiful, UNESCO-listed neighborhoods and Old Town—filled with boutique hotels, riverside markets, and hilltop cathedrals.

Hôtel Le Coucou Méribel

This family-friendly hotel in the Alps puts a playful spin on the traditional ski chalet concept—think polka-dot carpets, furniture legs shaped like ski poles, and frescoed ceilings depicting owls in the treetops. Throw in an exceptionally good ski-in ski-out location in the Trois-Vallées estate, and you have yourself one of the coolest accommodations in France.

A renowned summer getaway for royals and celebrities alike (you might remember it from Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises ), the beaches of Biarritz , in Basque country along the Bay of Biscay, are not only gorgeous—they’re also hugely popular with surfers thanks to their mellow, safe-for-beginners waves.

The Camargue

The Camargue, a marshy delta between the Mediterranean and the two branches of the Rhône, feels like another continent. Visitors can take Jeep tours deep into the wilderness punctuated with briny ponds, red salt flats, and wind-whipped reeds and grasses. You’ll also see the Camargue’s trademark free-roaming white horses and some of its 400 bird species—if you’re lucky, you might even spot some flamingos.

Gardens of Marqueyssac

The famous Gardens of Marqueyssac make up one of the most stunning landscapes in France—and the world. The 150,000 bubbly boxwood trees and hedges wrap around a 17th-century chateau that overlooks the Dordogne Valley. The entire vista looks like an illustration from a Perrault fairytale.

Yep, the whole darn city. There’s a reason the word flâneur can’t be translated perfectly into English—the idea of a long, aimless stroll taken simply to soak up the scenery seems utterly French. And in Paris , there’s always something to stroll past. Walk the Promenade Plantee, considered the world’s first elevated park , stock up on cheese and wine for a picnic in Luxembourg Gardens, and end the day watching the sunset behind the Eiffel Tower .

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc

Some hotels are so shrouded in legend that they are worth planning an entire trip around. Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc is one of those places. This Belle Époque landmark really needs no introduction, but we never pass up an opportunity to swoon over its seaside location, Dior spa, and bedside vases overfilled with roses from the garden.

Burgundy is home to some of France’s loveliest landscapes, from rolling green vineyards to forested national parks. Take a road trip through the region to get nonstop views of the countryside—with plenty of winery pit stops along the way.

Gordes is easily one of the most charming towns in all of France. The elevated location makes it one of the best places in Provence to watch the sunset, and it also happens to be an excellent home base for seeking out lavender fields during the summer months.

Canal du Midi

Canal du Midi is a tree-lined, 150-mile-long waterway running from the city of Toulouse down to the Mediterranean. While you can certainly admire the canal’s beauty from the shores, we recommend taking in the views from the polished teak deck of a river barge . You can’t do much better than Les Bateaux Belmond , a series of cruises exploring France’s waterways—complete with heated pools and king-sized beds.

The roof of western Europe is the birthplace of alpinism and home to one of today’s most vibrant mountain sports communities, so it’s a given that Mont Blanc and its subsidiary peaks needn’t bow to any mountains, anywhere. Its needle-like, Gothically-drawn skyline is the kind that inspires poets and painters.

Les Calanques National Park, Marseilles

Les Calanques are long, rocky inlets that resemble Norwegian fjords and jut out into the ocean between Cassis and Marseille—and trust us when we say the water here is some of the bluest you’ll ever see. Take a motorboat tour to get some of the best views, but be sure you head back to the mainland in time for a perfect seafood lunch.

Château de Chenonceau

The entire Loire Valley is a treasure trove of beautiful castles , but Château de Chenonceau easily rises to the top of the pack—both in terms of beauty and popularity. The current château was built on top of an old mill starting in 1514, while the trademark bridge and gallery were added about 60 years later. Today, the river-spanning structure and surrounding gardens are one of the most-visited attractions in the entire country.

Champagne-Ardenne

As its name suggests, Champagne-Ardenne is the birthplace of bubbly and one of the most beautiful regions in France. The area is covered with idyllic valleys and vineyards, of course, but also ancient castles, chateaus, and abbeys. Make sure to visit the capital city of Troyes for splendid churches from the Middle Ages, and Reims for underground wine cellars and the masterpiece Cathédrale Notre-Dame .

Palace of Versailles

An enduring symbol of the pinnacle of luxury, Louis XIV’s 18th-century residence is one of the most impressive combined displays of art, architecture, interior design, and landscaping in the world. Don’t miss the queen’s bedchambers, a masterpiece of over-the-top-ness; the legendary Hall of Mirrors, still used by the French government today to receive heads of state; or the three square miles of perfectly manicured gardens.

Château de Fontainebleau

This sprawling château was reportedly the preferred residence of Napoleon, and honestly? We get it. With its whopping 1,900 rooms and sprawling gardens—not to mention its stately facade— Château de Fontainebleau is easily one of the most beautiful places in France. (Bonus: It’s less than an hour away from Paris by train.)

Cliffs of Étretat, Normandy

Located along France’s Alabaster Coast, the pebble beach of Étretat is popular among sailors and surfers. But most visitors come to this stretch of coast in Upper Normandy for one reason: the famous chalk cliffs and arched rock formations. At various points along Étretat’s 80-mile stretch, you’ll find natural sculptures that have inspired travelers and artists (most notably Claude Monet ) for ages.

Sénanque Abbey

The seemingly endless stretches of lavender make Provence one of the prettiest (and best-smelling) places in France. One of the most scenic spots to enjoy the flower fields is Sénanque Abbey, a 12th-century church near the village of Gordes. The gentle heather-gray color of the abbey looks custom-made for its surroundings, particularly in June and July when the acres around it bloom into a sea of purple.

Strasbourg Cathedral

Strasbourg’s Gothic cathedral is sometimes known as “The Pink Cathedral” for its trademark color, which comes from the reddish sandstone used to build it. Although the original plans called for a pair of spires on top of the church, only one was built, giving the building a unique, somewhat mysterious look.

Walt Disney would surely approve of Colmar , with its timber-framed houses, colorful facades, and flower-lined canal. The commune is a delight to take in, whether it’s strolling the cobblestoned streets or taking a canoe trip down the water. Along with Kayersberg and Strasbourg, this provincial town is a trademark of the beautiful and charming Alsace region, located in northeastern France near Germany and Switzerland.

Mont Saint-Michel

Rising up from vast sandbanks and powerful tides, the rocky island of Mont Saint-Michel gives off an otherworldly appearance in its position off France’s northwestern coast in Normandy. A small medieval village, complete with winding streets and tiny houses, sits on the island, but the crown jewel is undoubtedly the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel. The incredible structure was built in 708 A.D. and was the inspiration behind the castle in Disney's Tangled.

Gorges du Verdon

Gorge du Verdon is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of France.” And although it might be smaller than its American counterpart, it certainly doesn’t fall short in terms of beauty. The 2,300-foot-deep valley was formed by the Alpine Verdon River, a dazzling turquoise stream that flows into the artificial Lac de Sainte-Croix. Hiking and horseback riding trails weave throughout the vertical limestone cliffs, connecting tiny villages and offering once-in-a-lifetime views.

The town of Menton has all the beauty of the Côte d’Azur ’s better-known coastal cities (see: Marseille, Nice ), but a fraction of the crowds. With over 316 days of sunshine a year, exceptional gardens, boutique-filled alleyways, and quality Italian cuisine due to its position on the Franco-Italian border, it’s an ideal spot for a day trip.

Giverny is a small village on the border of Normandy most famous for being the site of Claude Monet’s cherished riverside house and garden, both of which are open to the public today. The pastel pink house is pretty as a picture, with spring green shutters and ivy crawling up every surface. And the gardens are like an impressionist painting come to life, with water lilies, weeping willows, wisterias, and the famous green Japanese bridge.

Auvergne Volcanoes

One of Europe’s largest regional parks (it’s roughly the size of Rhode Island), the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park consists of a cluster of around 80 dormant volcanoes. Take the cable car up to Puy de Sancy, the highest mountain in the park, for an easy (but still breathtaking) 2.5-mile ridge hike.

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France Travel Guide

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The 16 best places to visit in France

From buzzing cities to gorgeous countryside escapes, these are the essential places in France to visit at least once in your life

Photograph: Shutterstock

France   is one of the most visited places on the planet – and you better believe that it lives up to every bit of the hype. This famous country has been at the cultural heart of western Europe for millennia, and you can see signs of its complex and fascinating past all over the place. But it’s not all   grand old châteaux : France is also blessed with some exceptionally beautiful natural wonders   and   some of Europe’s coolest city-break destinations .

So, from heavenly beach destinations and   picturesque rural villages   to grand old cities like   Paris ,   Lyon   and   Marseille , these are the best places to visit in France – and some of the world’s most essential destinations.

Discover France:

📍 The best   things to do in France 🌳 The prettiest   villages in France 🏖 The best   beaches in France 🌆 The best French cities to visit 🏰 Spectacular  French châteaux you can rent 😋 The best   restaurants in France 🌊  The best places to stay on the French Riviera

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best places to visit in France

Where do you start with a city like Paris? The French capital is one of the great global cities, as renowned for its world-class museums, magnificent grub and lavish shopping options as it is for its mere vibe . From the Louvre to the Jardin de Luxembourg, the place oozes history, beauty and, yes, romance. There is, quite plainly, nowhere quite like it.

Discover Paris:

📍 The best things to do in Paris 🧑 ‍🍳 The best restaurants in Paris 🎨 The best museums in Paris 🥐 The best cafés in Paris

The port city of Marseille has been one great big melting pot of cultures ever since it was founded by the Greeks a whopping 2,600 years ago. Having thrown off its rep as a town of sailors and gangsters, these days Marseille is a dazzlingly multicultural city with galleries and rooftop bars galore – and all within easy reach of marvellous spectacles of nature in the form of calanques and coves. 

Discover Marseille:

📍 The best things to do in Marseille 😋 The best restaurants in Marseille 🥾 The essential guide to Marseille’s calanques 🚤 The best boat trips from Marseille

Nice by name, nice by... alright, that’s a bit too cheesy. But it’s true. With its lavish beachside promenade, throngs of established museums and hearty wine bars, Nice is a rather exceptionally lovely coastal city. It’s the former residence of Henri Matisse, with an entire museum dedicated to the legendary artist – and with skies this vibrant, it’s not hard to see where he found the inspiration for his bold blues.

Discover Nice:

📍 The best things to do in Nice 🏖 The best beaches in Nice 😋 The best restaurants in Nice 🛍 The best shops in Nice

Lyonnais are known for being particularly proud of their city – and they’ve every right to be. This place is a gastronomic wonderland and (disputedly, we admit) France’s food capital, with each of its Michelin-starred abodes matched by dozens of under-the-radar culinary masters. And with its Unesco-protected city centre, Rhône and Saône river views and its history as a silk centre, Lyon has loads of non-foodie stuff to do, too.

Discover Lyon:

🍴 The best restaurants in Lyon

Not just the greatest winemaking hub in the world, Bordeaux is also a full-blown dream of a city: packed with characterful medieval architecture, a top-tier dining scene and sprawling green open spaces, and within touching distance of some of the mightiest (and warmest) beaches on France’s Atlantic coast. Even teetotallers will find a shedload to do here.

Nîmes, Arles and Orange

For history buffs, there are few regions of France more worth a week’s visit than the lower reaches of the River Rhône. Impressively preserved Roman amphitheatres, arches, temples and baths draw as many visitors to the cities of Nîmes, Arles and Orange as the laidback lifestyle, local wines and year-round sunshine. But the highlight is the spectacular Pont du Gard: the 2,100-year-old three-tiered aqueduct that straddles the Gardon river. It’s one of the most impressive Roman monuments surviving anywhere – Rome included.

French Riviera

Stretching for more than 100 miles along France’s southeastern coast, the Riviera is best appreciated as a whole: as a series of delightful places rather than any one in particular. From perfume capital Grasse and rocky Èze to legendarily-glitzy Saint-Tropez and film-tastic Cannes, the Côte d'Azur is everything it claims to be and more.

Discover the French Riviera:

😎 The best places to stay on the French Riviera

Inland from the bustle of the Riviera, the vast and ancient rural region of Provence is the place for a slower pace of life. If you don’t like the smell of lavender, best avoid the Valensole plateau, with its fields of purple stretching into the distance – 300 square miles’ worth of the fragrant stuff. We recommend renting a mountain bike and cycling the yellow dirt paths, with a charming stopover in a village such as Riez or Esparron-de-Verdon. Not far away, the gravity-defying limestone flanks and dazzling turquoise-green waters of the Gorges du Verdon draw hikers, swimmers and kayakers from far and wide.

Named after the river that runs through it, the Dordogne region is almost surreally picturesque. Vines as far as the eye can see, endless rolling hills, impossibly pretty hamlets… from the seventeenth-century Chateau de Marqueyssac and its hypnotic gardens to the oak forests of the Périgord noir, it’s so beautiful it can feel like the stuff of dreams.

On the Upper Rhine plain between France and Germany, Alsace has changed hands several times. Start in regional capital Strasbourg for a taste of Alsace’s culture, architecture and food – a distinctive blend of French and German – then  head to half-timbered Colmar for shades of Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (plus  one of Europe’s best Christmas markets ). And whatever you do, stop off at  the twelfth-century Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg: an epic complex with views all the way to the Black Forest.

Lake Annecy

Bordered by snow-capped mountains in the Haute-Savoie region, Annecy is known as ‘Europe’s cleanest lake’ thanks to strict local environmental regulations. It’s also very beautiful. The third-largest lake within France’s borders, its ten square miles draw bathers, sailors, divers and sunbathers alike to its grassy ‘beaches’ in summer. Rich with flora and fauna, the area’s hills are ideal for hiking, and the town of Annecy itself brims with brilliant restaurants, delis and canals.

Canal du Midi

Connecting the Garonne river at Toulouse with the Étang de Thau basin on the Mediterranean, the 150-mile-long Midi makes for the dreamiest of waterside cycle adventures in summer. Built under the patronage of Louis XIV’s first minister Colbert in the seventeenth century, it is now connected to the Canal de Garonne, and together the two canals allow for barges to travel from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. For the full canal experience, you should rent one. A barge, that is, not a canal.

Loire Valley

Two things make a trip here essential: castles and wine. The Loire is France’s longest river, and the stretch between Orléans and Angers is home to more than 300 grand châteaux dating back to the age when France had kings, as well as 185,000 acres of vineyards. Follow the river past woods and fields and through the medieval towns of Blois, Amboise and Saumur – each crowned by an unmissable royal castle. And don’t miss a chance to sample the local specialities: white wine, rillettes, goat’s cheese and Chambord – the latter named after one of the province’s most spectacular châteaux.

French Basque Country

Although most of the historic Basque Country lies over the border in modern-day Spain, the French part is well worth a visit – especially if you’re partial to a gnarly surf trip. A classy bathing retreat since the nineteenth century, Biarritz became the home of European surfing in the ’50s, with the Atlantic regularly chucking ten-metre waves up its  Grande Plage.  Once you’ve dried off, refuel with a plate of the signature cured ham from Bayonne, just up the road. And further down the coast, the beach towns of St Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye have miles of golden sand and eye-popping summer sunsets over the ocean.

With its sweeping cliffs and capes and proud Celtic heritage, France’s rugged northwest region— aka ‘Little Britain’ — is rightly likened to Cornwall. The coastline gets top billing, from the romantic Pink Granite Coast via quaint fishing villages to walkers’ magnet the Crozon peninsula. History fans should make for Carnac, Brittany’s Stonehenge, while gourmands will love plundering the local larder: crêpes, savoury galettes, and seafood, with France’s oyster capital, Cancale, just east of the picture-perfect walled town of Saint-Malo.

Normandy’s stirring white-chalk cliffs – from picturesque port Honfleur to chic weekend getaway Étretat – gave birth to no less than the entire art movement of Impressionism. New bike route  La Seine à Vélo  reunites many of the area’s joys, especially at Monet’s home and lilypad-lined gardens at Giverny, before taking in Rouen (tied to Joan of Arc lore) and seaside Deauville. Keep on coasting for three more musts: the D-Day landing sites, Bayeux’s famously ornate tapestry, and ‘Wonder of the West’ the Mont-Saint-Michel, an island topped by a gravity-defying abbey.

Discover more in Europe

The best places to visit in italy.

I conic cities, gorgeous towns and villages, incredible islands and all the rest

The best places to visit in Greece

From Athens to the islands, there’s so much to fall in love with here

The best places to visit in Spain

Sure, the beaches and big cities are incredible – but there’s much, much more to Spain

The best places to visit in France

It’s one of the most visited places on the planet, but France always lives up to the hype

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50 Best Things to Do in France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

What to Do in France?

Looking for some epic ideas to help you decide what to do in France? Look no further.

With so many interesting regions , beautiful landscapes, and endless landmarks scattered throughout the land, France is an excellent travel destination, and discovering the best things to do in France (and write about it!) is a lifelong project for us.

Based in Paris, we take every opportunity to explore different corners of France, and yet our France bucket list seems to keep getting longer instead of shorter!

Here are our favorite things to do and things to see in France – from the obvious to the unusual – for when you visit this great country. Some we’ve done, some we haven’t, and some we like to do again and again. Now, how many have you ticked off your list?

TIP: Start planning your next French adventure; check out our France Travel Planner !

Best Things to Do in Northern France

1. be moved by mont saint-michel.

Be moved by  Mont Saint-Michel , the wonder of the Western World and one of the best places to visit in Northern France . This superb Benedictine abbey and renowned center of pilgrimage is set on a rocky island at the mouth of the Couesnon River, where the regions of Normandy and Brittany meet.

The area is known for its high tides, which leave the abbey inaccessible for some hours and give Mont Saint-Michel a picturesque setting.

MONT SAINT-MICHEL TRIP PLANNING

• Quick Guide to Mont Saint-Michel
• Best Hotels in Mont Saint-Michel
• Buy your Tickets to Mont Saint-Michel

2. A Royal Day in Versailles

The Château of Versailles is a wonder of French baroque architecture and one of the top things to see in France on any holiday to Paris.

Visit the fabulous rooms and halls inside the Château, which was home to three French kings and their courts. Then explore the magnificent French-style gardens , with beautiful fountains and grooves, and the grounds around the Grand Canal, perhaps on two wheels or on a rowboat.

VERSAILLES TRIP PLANNING

• Quick Guide to Versailles Palace and Gardens
• Best Hotels near the Palace of Versailles
• Buy your Tickets to Versailles

3. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches

The Normandy Landing Operations was the largest seaborne invasion in history. The invasion took place on the beaches of Normandy (Omaha, Utah, Sword Gold, and Juno Beach) on Tuesday, 6 June 1944, by the Allies, and it was the beginning of the liberation of German-occupied France (and later Europe) from Nazi control.

The Normandy D-day Landing Beaches is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. However, if you have the time, explore the area on a multi-day road trip to visit the beaches and some war cemeteries and memorials.

D-DAY LANDING BEACHES TRIP PLANNING

• Normandy WW2 Sites Road Trip
• Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour from Paris

4. Spend a Night (or Two) in a French Château

Spending a night in a French château is one of the unique things to do in France. France is home to more than 40,000 châteaux of all periods and styles. Some of these French châteaux are home to nobles or rich people, while others have been beautifully restored and turned into boutique hotels, perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway in France.

Château de Villiers-le-Mahieu (in the picture above) and Château d’Ermenonville are two beautiful examples near Paris, but there are many more!

• Best Château-hotels in the Loire Valley
• Best Château-hotels in Burgundy
• Best Château-hotels in the Champagne region

5. Climb Up the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic monument in Paris (and France), and the climb up to the summit is always on the top of any Paris bucket list .

The views from the top of the Eiffel Tower are amazing, especially at sunset. On the second floor, there’s also an interesting exhibition about the history of the Eiffel Tower and its construction – Click here to buy your tickets to the Eiffel Tower

6. Visit the Burial Place of the Kings of France at Saint-Denis

The Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis is the burial place of the Kings of France from the 12th century to the 19th century. This magnificent building also represents the birth of Gothic architecture in France.

Indeed, this is the first French cathedral rebuilt using new techniques like the pointed arch, the pointed ribbed vault, or the use of stained glass windows to get more light inside.

Located in the city of Saint-Denis, a few kilometers north of Paris, the Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis makes for an easy half-day trip from the French capital – Click here to Buy your Tickets to the Basilica of Saint-Denis

7. A Day at the Louvre Museum

Visit the Louvre, the world’s best museum, and admire some of the greatest masterworks of all time!

Also, take the time to learn the history of this former Royal Palace. For many centuries, the Louvre was the seat of the French Kings until King Louis XIV moved to Versailles. Explore the Louvre’s medieval moats and walls, Napoleon iii’s apartments, the royal galleries, and more!

LOUVRE MUSEUM TRIP PLANNING

• Buy your Tickets to the Louvre Museum
• How to Visit the Louvre in 2 hours or Less

8. Follow the Cider Route in Normandy

If you are looking for fun things to do in France, take the Cider Trail in Normandy . Here, apples abound, and the region is famous for its cider and other famous French drinks like Calvados or Pommeau.

Get ready to unfold the journey of apples from farms to your glasses by following the Cider Trail – a well-marked 40km tourist circuit through the region of Pays d’Auge in Lower Normandy.

The Pays d’Auge is popular for typical half-timbered houses, stud farms, apple orchards, and distillers who open their cellars and pressing sheds to visitors to taste their products.

9. A Night of Can Can Dance and Bubbles in a Parisian Cabaret

Parisian cabarets are a fun way to enjoy Paris at night in style and a popular option for special celebrations.

Today, the most famous cabaret shows in Paris, like the Moulin Rouge or the Paradis Latin , are a mix of music hall and burlesque shows offering lavish musical and theatrical productions with elaborate costumes, singing, and dancing.

In Paris, a cabaret show is traditionally served with dinner, paired with some of the best French wines and champagne into an all-evening extravaganza. It is an evening of entertainment, fun, and lots of bubbles.

CABARET SHOW PLANNING

• Quick Guide to the Best Cabarets in Paris
• Buy your Tickets to the Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show
• Buy your Tickets to the Paradis Latin Cabaret Show
• Buy your Tickets to the Crazy Horse Cabaret Show

10. Admire the Spectacular Cliffs of Etretat

Our France Bucket List is also full of natural wonders. Etretat is a small town on the Alabaster Coast in Normandy, famous for its spectacular vertical cliffs and other rock formations that inspired some of Monet’s masterworks. There are arches, sea stacks, and tunnels cut into the 50 to 80 m high chalk walls.

Etretat also has beautiful architecture built in the Anglo-Norman style and some interesting sites. It is possible to visit Etretat on a weekend trip from Paris – or even better – as part of a Normandy road trip .

11. Feel the Divine at the Grandes Cathédrales

The historical region of Picardy , in Hauts-de-France , is probably the region with the most awesome Gothic cathedrals per square meter in the world!

From  Laon , one of the first Grandes Cathédrales inspired by this new Gothic art, to the cathedrals of  Amiens  or  Beauvais , visitors can witness the main steps of the evolution of Gothic architecture in France, extraordinary buildings, all listed UNESCO heritage and usually surrounded by charming old towns.

12. Nature as its Best at the Bay of Somme

The Bay of Somme  is the largest estuary in Northern France, an unspoiled place composed of dunes, marshes, and salt meadows.

Situated on the route of migrating birds, the Bay of Somme is a paradise for birdwatchers, with more than 250 different species of birds spending a part of the year in the area. It is also home to the largest colony of French seals, which can be spotted resting on sandbanks that emerge as the tide recedes.

Enjoy the Bay of Somme and its wildlife from the water, on foot, or by bike. The Belle Époque steam train ( Le Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme ) is also fun to discover these beautiful landscapes.

13. Look for the Water Lilies at Monet’s Garden

Explore Monet’s Gardens in Giverny , the object of some of Monet’s masterworks. Admire the water lily pond, where Monet painted his world-famous water lilies series.

The artist’s house and the attached workshop are also worth the visit, and they are an excellent opportunity to get a glimpse of Monet’s life and work in Giverny – Click here to book a Giverny day trip from Paris

Best Things to Do in Central France

14. fly over the valley of the kings on a hot-air balloon.

A hot air balloon flight , wherever it is in the world, is a truly magical experience. But it is even more magical if you can fly over some of the most beautiful châteaux of the Loire Valley .

Glide through the sky in a massive floating vessel while enjoying sunrise or sunset — and perhaps a glass of champagne — over magnificent Renaissance châteaux and their beautiful grounds in the Loire Valley – Book your Hot Air Balloon Experience over the Loire Valley

LOIRE VALLEY TRIP PLANNING

• Loire Valley Trip Planner
• Loire Valley Road Trip Itinerary

15. The Loire Valley by Bike

La Loire à Vélo is one of the top activities in France for bike lovers. The Loire by Bike is a unique 800 km cycle route that links Nevers to Saint Brevin-Les-Pins in the Atlantic Ocean. Follow France’s last great wild river on two wheels while exploring the Loire Valley with its beautiful Renaissance châteaux, medieval towns, and good wines!

Best Things to Do in Southern France

16. go in search of the blue gold of provence.

The lavender fields in Provence are some of the most striking landscapes in Southern France. From mid-June to late August, explore the Valensole Plateau , the Luberon Valley , and the Sault Plateau , well known for its “blue gold,” lavender distilleries, and pretty small towns.

A trip to the lavender fields in Provence is one of the unique things to do in France. For the best pictures, plan your trip carefully around the blooming periods in each area.

LAVENDER FIELDS TRIP PLANNING

• Quick Guide to the Lavender Fields in Provence
• Lavender Season in Provence
• The Ultimate Lavender Route Road Trip

17. Explore the World of Perfumes in Grasse

Worldwide known as the perfume capital, Grasse is a small town in Provence where the perfume industry has prospered since the end of the 18th century.

Today, Grasse attracts visitors worldwide willing to learn about the art of perfumes in France at the Musée International de la Parfumerie (2 Boulevard du Jeu de Ballon). Grasse is also the last stop of the Route du Mimosa , which is especially beautiful to drive in wintertime.

Grasse has several perfume factories, but Fragonard’s Historical Factory (20 Boulevard Fragonard, free entrance) is the most famous. There are also many perfume workshops where you can learn the art of perfume making and create your own essence – Click here to design your own Fragrance in Grasse

18. The Gorges du Verdon by Kayak

Set in the Verdon Regional Park, Gorges du Verdon is one of Europe’s most fabulous natural settings and one of the most beautiful places to see in France. This limestone canyon with turquoise waters runs for 25 kilometers through the Park, and at points, it reaches depths of more than 700 meters.

Among the different ways to explore the Gorges du Verdon, kayaking is the most popular. Rent a kayak for half a day and paddle through the canyon alone or in two. There are some spots where you can tie the kayak to take a refreshing bath.

The list of outdoor activities around the Gorges du Verdon includes canyoning, rafting, hiking, via ferrata, paragliding, and rock climbing. Click here to browse all outdoor activities in Gorges du Verdon .

TIP: This Gorges du Verdon Road Trip covers the Gorges and some pretty neighboring villages.

19. Explore the Magnificent Palace of the Popes in Avignon

If you are wondering what to see in France for great architecture and history, Avignon is a good place to visit. Avignon , in Southern France, was in the 14th century the heart of Christendom and home to six Catholic Popes. Standing high above the city, visitors will find the Palais des Papes , the magnificent 14th-century building where the Popes lived and celebrated the most important religious events.

Listed as UNESCO World Heritage, the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) is also the world’s largest and most important civil construction built in Gothic style, with more than 15,000 square meters of living space – Click here to buy your Tickets to the Palace of the Popes

20. A Breath of Fresh Air at the Calanques of Marseille

The National Park Calanques of Marseille–Cassis , in Southern France, offers spectacular landscapes, rich flora and fauna, and endless outdoor activities. This National Park includes coastal ranges of creeks, a vast marine area of the Mediterranean Sea, several islands, and one of the richest submarine canyons in the world.

The best way to explore the Calanques is by walking one of the hiking trails that follow the coast, but you can also book a catamaran tour and explore this wonderful area from the water.

21. Explore the Hilltop Villages of Provence

The region of Provence is dotted with many hilltop villages, a world of winding roads, beautiful stone houses, stunning panoramas, and silence. These villages were usually built on the top of the hills to protect their population from different threads.

If the Luberon Villages  ( Roussillon , Gordes, Menerbes , and more) are the most popular villages of Provence , there are still many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

22. Corsica Island by Car

The best way to explore the beautiful Corsica Island is on a road trip. This is also the only way to reach Corsica’s best beaches.

For short stays, we suggest staying in one of the biggest cities and exploring its surroundings on day trips by car. For more extended holidays, go off the beaten path, inland, and also visit the smaller islands nearby – Check out our Best Tips for Renting a Car in France

23. Whisper to Horses at the Camargue Nature Reserve

A trip to the Camargue is one of the top things to do in France for nature lovers. This protected area in Southern France, mostly made of marshlands, is famous for its herd of horses and pink flamingos. The Camargue is also an excellent place for bird watching or just for a relaxing mini-holiday among great nature.

TIP: This Road Trip in Southern France covers the Camargue and much more!

24. Explore the Cathar Region of France

The Cathar Route takes you to some of the most incredible fortresses, intriguing abbeys, and medieval towns in Southern France. These sites are related to the Cathars, a Christian dualist movement in the Languedoc region between the 12th and 14th centuries. The Cathars were considered heretics by the Catholic Church, and they were the main target of some of the most violent crusades.

A Cathar Country road trip with your own car is the best way to explore the Cathar sites like the Cité de Carcassonne , Château de Montségur, or Fontfroide.

25. Walk the Ochre Trail in Roussillon

Le Sentier des Ochres (the Ochre Trail) in Roussillon is a beautiful hike through Roussillon’s remains of the ochre quarries. Walk between the cliffs and the red tints, surrounded by a lush forest, and learn about the ochre exploitation in Provence.

There are two different trails of 30 and 50 minutes. Although it is not adapted for people in wheelchairs, the first 50 meters are accessible (and free to visit for them) and end with a panoramic view.

The site is closed to the public from 1 January to 9 February. Out of these dates, Le Sentier des Ochres is open every day.

26. Winter Fun at Menton’s Lemon Festival

If you are looking for fun things to do in France in wintertime, don’t miss Menton in February. The picturesque town of Menton , close to the Italian border, is famous for its lemons: very bright, yellow, and elongated fruits prized by chefs for their rich essential oil.

Menton is one of the best places to visit in France in winter . Every February since 1934, the  Fête du Citron (Menton’s Lemon Festival) takes place. This unique event that celebrates lemons involves giant sculptures of lemons and other citrus fruits. The displays are also accompanied by parades, shows, music, and dances.

27. A Journey to the Center of the Earth at Gouffrede Padirac

The Gouffre de Padirac (Padirac Chasm) is another of the best things to see in France. This is the monumental entrance to a natural cavity 53 meters wide and 103 meters deep located in the Lot department in Occitanie.

After a vertiginous descent, embark on a boat trip along the underground river to explore one of the most interesting geological sites in France,

The best part of the visit comes after the boat trip, where the caves are stunningly brilliant. Book your tickets well in advance!

28. Dreamy Days in the French Riviera

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) is one of the most beautiful parts of southern France, which always seems to be bathed in sunshine.  Nice  is the French Riviera’s capital and a convenient place to stay to explore the surroundings.

Clustered around  Nice , there are some compelling destinations like  Antibes , the hilltop villages ,  Cannes ,  Menton,  or  Saint Tropez , perfect for exploring on day trips from Nice. You can really spend some dreamy days on the French Riviera!

FRENCH RIVIERA TRIP PLANNING

• Best Places to Visit in the French Riviera
• Best Beaches in the French Riviera
• Best Resorts on the French Riviera
• French Riviera Road Trip

29. Canal du Midi on a Boat Barge or by Bike

Stretching from Toulouse to Sète, the Canal du Midi is a feat of architectural genius that links the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This 17th-century construction required the work of 12,000 men over fifteen years.

The Canal du Midi is listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is an unmissable tourist destination in Southern France. Visitors can explore the Canal du Midi by boat, hotel barge, and bike.

30. Get Lost in the Markets of Provence

The markets of Provence are lovely and a ritual that is truly part of living in Provence. Just about every village in Provence has a weekly market, usually in one of the main squares, while markets in bigger towns occur twice a week or even daily.

The markets of Provence sell prepared foods and fresh produce but not only. There are also stalls with flowers and provençal goods such as lavender, tablecloths, clothes, and more.

We have some favorites, like the markets of Saint-Rémy, Lourmarin, Apt (voted one of the most beautiful markets in France), and Aix-en-Provence market (the most famous). You can easily spend a day wandering through the colorful stalls and people-watching, or you can sit at a wonky table with a coffee or a glass of rosé.

Best Things to Do in Eastern France

31. follow the alsace wine route.

The Wine Route of Alsace is one of the best road trips in France . The legendary 170-kilometer stretch along the historic region of Alsace in Grand Est takes you through a string of picturesque villages, well-known wine-producing towns, and exceptional landscapes.

To get the most out of the Alsace Wine Route, consider a minimum of three days, but of course, you can take more time! Be sure to include places like Strasbourg , Colmar , and perhaps a short hike through the vineyards.

ALSACE WINE ROUTE TRIP PLANNING

• Alsace Wine Route Road Trip
• Things to Do in Strasbourg
• Things to Do in Colmar
• Most Beautiful Villages in Alsace

32. Join a Food Tour in Lyon

If you are wondering what to do in France to enjoy great food, head to Vieux Lyon. Generally acknowledged to be the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is the ideal place to discover French cuisine and fall in love with it .  

Lyon is a city with more restaurants per head and where food is taken to another level and people, it’s a way of life!

Join this top-rated food tour to discover the secrets of Lyon’s traditional cuisine . This tour visits a traditional bouillon Lyonnais, a cheese shop, a chocolate shop, and other shops selling local products.

33. Explore the Lakes and Waterfalls of the Jura

In the region of Bourgogne-Franche Comté, the department of Jura offers a magnificent succession of forests and lakes with wooded banks. Some belvederes are perfect for admiring the lakes and getting some fresh air.

The Jura is also land to many waterfalls, usually linked through beautiful hikes.

The Jura and its natural wonders are best explored by car. Have a look at this  road trip through the Jura , one of the best road trips for nature lovers.

34. Stunning Modern Architecture by Le Corbusier

This France things to do list also has space for iconic architecture. The Swiss-born architect Le Corbusier is the father of Modern Architecture, and he designed many iconic buildings all around France.

Villa Savoye near Paris is Le Corbusier’s most famous work, the first project to which he applied the five pillars of Modern Architecture. Other famous buildings by Le Corbusier include Ronchamp Chapel (in the picture above), L’ Unité d’Habitation in Marseille, and La Tourette Convent.

35. Enjoy Some of the World’s Best Wines along the Route des Grands Crus

The Route des Grands Crus is the most famous wine trail in Bourgogne. This Burgundy wine trail from Beaune to Dijon is an ideal road trip for wine lovers who also enjoy picturesque small towns and beautiful landscapes.

Explore the beautiful region of Burgundy and learn about its winemakers’ savoir-faire while enjoying some of the world’s best reds and whites.

36. Winter Getaway at Les Trois Vallées

The French Alps are an excellent destination for a winter getaway in France, home to iconic snow-capped peaks, charming old towns, and endless ski slopes.

Les Trois Vallées is the largest ski area in the world, with 600 kilometers of pistes and some of the best ski resorts in the French Alps . Enjoy a ski holiday in one of the most snow-sure resorts in Europe, as well as other thrilling activities guaranteed to keep dedicated skiers and non-skiers alike happy all holiday.

37. Lyon’s Festival of Lights Awaits

In Lyon , the coldest season kicks off with the Festival of Lights ,  one of the best things to do in France in wintertime.

The  Fête des Lumières (usually the first weekend of December) began as a spontaneous celebration of the Virgin Mary when her bronze statue was erected, and all the Lyonnais placed candles in their windows to honor Her.

Today, different artists light up buildings, streets, squares, and parks all over the city. The city has a magical atmosphere with more than forty light installations to discover.

38. Admire the Top of Europe from Aiguille du Midi

The Aiguille du Midi is a 3,842-metre-tall mountain in the Mont Blanc massif within the French Alps. It can be directly accessed by cable car from Chamonix for a closer view of the Mont Blanc (4,810m).

Once up, several terraces offer panoramic views of beautiful glaciers and the Alps. Don’t miss The Vertical Space , a museum dedicated to the adventure of ascending Mont Blanc throughout history.

Chamonix is also home to many fun outdoor activities all year round. Click here for the full list of fun things to do in Chamonix .

39. Champagne Tasting in Epernay

Epernay , in the region of Grand Est, is the capital of the Champagne region, where the most important champagne houses succeed one another along its famous Avenue de Champagne .

Visit the city with its beautiful 19th-century private mansions and join a tour of one of the best Champagne houses in Epernay to learn about the history and production of champagne wine . Most of the time, these tours end with some champagne tastings.

40. Hike the Volcanoes of Auvergne

Auvergne , in the Massif Central, is one of the most beautiful things to see in France, a land of 450 dormant volcanoes spread in the Chaîne des Puys, Monts Dore, Artense, Cézallier, and Monts du Cantal. The Volcanoes of Auvergne are a paradise for hikers, with long and short trails that suit all levels.

The Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park is the largest French regional natural park, home to the famous Puy-de-Dome and other stunning volcanos. It has unique landscapes but also a beautiful heritage built with volcanic stones and remarkable biodiversity.

The city of Clermont Ferrand is a good base to explore the Volcanoes of Auvergne. From here, you can do many fun activities like paragliding, quad bike, canyoning, and karting – Click here for the full list

41. A Spa Day in Vichy

Thanks to the richness of its volcanic soil, the region of Auvergne contains a variety of thermal sources to treat many conditions, also perfect for a quick recovery after a long hike.

Among the Auvergne’s spa towns, Vichy is the spa resort par excellence, well known for its springs’ healing and therapeutic properties and its beautiful Art-Déco architecture.

Enjoy Vichy Thermal Spa , one of the biggest spas in Europe, but also be sure to explore Vichy’s rich Art-Déco heritage, its Opera House, eclectic villas, grand hotels, and two casinos.

42. Christmas Wonderland in Alsace

Alsace’s Christmas Markets are the best Christmas Markets in France to visit. As Alsace sits on the border with Germany, some of the German traditions of Christmas have become part of the culture in Alsace.

From mid-November to December, the Christmas Markets of Alsace are a must-do in France. There are huge Christmas trees, many lights, and many Christmas decorations in the different old towns, and it truly feels like a Christmas wonderland.

Wander around the different wooden chalets, do your last Christmas shopping, and eat some sweets or gingerbread. When it gets too cold, you can always keep yourself warm with a hot chocolate or a jar of mulled wine.

ALSACE CHRISTMAS MARKETS TRIP PLANNING

• Best Christmas Markets in Alsace
• Quick Guide to the Strasbourg Christmas Market
• Quick Guide to the Colmar Christmas Market
• Where to Sleep in Strasbourg
• Where to Sleep in Colmar

Best Things to Do in Western France

43. surf the waves in biarritz.

In the French Basque Country, Biarritz is a surfing haven, the undisputed epicenter of surfing in France.

In the beginning, only foreigners came to surf in Biarritz. Soon, the locals adopted the sport and promoted it to the point that today, Biarritz is at the top of anyone’s places-to-surf bucket list, the place where some of the biggest international surfing competitions take place.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, we are sure that you will find your sweet surfing spot in Biarritz. Check out this list of places in Biarritz where you can learn or improve your surfing skills . 

44. Hike the Sentier des Douaniers (GR34)

The GR34 , also known as  Le Sentier des Douaniers , is one of the top hikes in France. This path borders the coastline of Brittany for over 2,000 kilometers, and it was originally used by customs officers to prevent smuggling.

Walk the whole hike (or only a part of it) and explore Brittany’s impressive cliffs, lonely beaches, and picturesque coastal towns.

45. Visit the Quirky Machines de l’Ile in Nantes

Les Machines de l’Ile , is the must-attraction in Nantes and one of the quirkiest things to do in France. Located on an isle in the middle of the Loire River, in the city’s former shipyards, this artistic project brings together a set of crazy machines that seem straight out of Jules Verne’s imagination and Leonardo Da Vinci’s invention.

Ride the  Sea World Carousel  on the back of the strangest marine creatures. Wander around the island on a  crazy elephant  who likes to shower all the kids he finds on his way! Visit the  Galerie des Machines , where a team of crazy inventors and machinists are working on new projects and machines.

46. Get Mystic at the Alignments of Carnac

The Alignments of Carnac , in Bretagne, Western France, is an exceptional site of megalithic alignments with more than 3,000 menhirs over more than 4 kilometers. These menhirs were erected between 6,000 and 2,000 AD, and even if we still don’t know the purpose of these alignments, they are just amazing.

Carnac is one of the unique places to see in France. Start with an introductory video and exhibition at the Maison des Mégalithes . Then take the time to wander around the stones and soak up the special atmosphere of this unique site.

47. Run the Quirky Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc  

If you are looking for fun things to do in France, don’t miss the Marathon du Médoc . This unique event takes place every year in September through the world-famous vineyards of Médoc, near Bordeaux . Here, participants run with fun costumes on, and wine tastings and other activities are organized along the course.   

This marathon race is considered “the longest marathon in the world” because of the numerous activities for runners scattered around the course. The various wine tastings do not help either!

The Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc attracts every year around 8,500 participants, representing more than 50 nations, as well as many spectators. The marathon is organized by a volunteer association with more than 2,800 volunteers, and it’s a joyful event that we suggest to try at least once in your life.

48. Climb up the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s Largest Sand Dune

Dune du Pilat is an impressive sight, spanning around 3 km in length, 600 m in width, and a lofty 100 or so meters high. It is located in the Arcachon Basin, and it is one of the best places to visit near Bordeaux .

Dune du Pilat is one of the most unique things to do in Western France . Climb up to the top of the dune to admire the nature on offer, or book in for a paraglide over the dune to gain a bird’s eye view of the nearby forest and the Atlantic Ocean – Click here to book a Dune du Pilat day tour from Bordeaux

49. Enjoy Amazing Prehistoric Art At Lascaux IV

Lascaux , near Sarlat-la-Canéda , is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world! A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cave features over 600 parietal paintings, considered to be masterpieces of Stone Age art.

Lascaux was discovered in 1940 by a group of local young boys and opened to the public in 1963. Unfortunately, human breath started to make the paintings deteriorate, so the original site was permanently closed in the 80s.

The current site is a perfect replica of the original. It is called  Lascaux IV , being Lascaux II and Lascaux III partial replicas that you can also visit. Don’t miss Lascaux IV’s great guided visit, which starts with an emotional approach to the discovery. You can visit Lascaux IV on a day trip from Sarlat or as part of a Dordogne road trip . Book your tickets well in advance!

50. The Sweet Life in the Gulf of Morbihan

The best things to do in France list ends on the Brittany coast. With its many islands and islets, its microclimate that warms the sea, and its sweet life, the Gulf of Morbihan is one of the most beautiful landscapes in western Frane to discover all year.

Morbihan means little sea in the local language, and it is the perfect place for sailing on a catamaran, hiking, or exploring the little islands protected from the vagaries of the ocean. Among the fifty or so islands in Morbihan,  Île aux Moines  and Île d’ Arz  are locals’ favorites.

More France Bucket List Ideas

• Things to Do in Northern France
• Things to Do in Southern France
• Things to Do in Eastern France
• Things to Do in Western France

And there you have it, our France Bucket List, the list of what to do in France for a unique French holiday. Do you have any favorites not included in this list? Let us know in the France Travel Facebook Group ; we will be happy to enlarge the list!

Click here for more Travel Inspiration .

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25+ Prettiest Small Towns in France (+ Map!)

While Paris is magnificent, Strasbourg is charming, and Nice is a summertime delight, there’s no doubt that exploring some of the incredibly beautiful small towns of France can definitely enhance your trip to the country–and this guide aims to round up some of the loveliest of them all!

We teamed up with a couple of dozen other travel writers for this post, asking them to contribute their favorite French village to this guide. The results vary wildly, touching all corners of the country and giving an excellent overview of where to find some of the best small towns in France to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a Provencal beauty located near lavender fields, a charming Alsatian town to explore during Christmas, an idyllic spot along the coast of Normandy, or something else entirely, these small French towns bound to have something to offer.

Table of Contents

Adorable Small Villages in Northeast France

Lovely northwestern small towns in france, beautiful small towns in southeastern france, stunning small towns in central france, gorgeous villages in southwest france, map of the best small towns in france.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Kaysersberg

From Jacquie of Flashpacking Family

Kaysersberg in Alsace may be small but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the most famous villages in France. It is one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France and in 2017 it was voted Village préféré des Français.

It earns its status as one of  Alsace’s fairytale villages with its colorful, timber-framed houses that are seen throughout the region. But what makes Kaysersberg a little more special than its enchanting neighbors, Eguisheim and Riquewihr, is that it is much less busy. Add to this the beautiful River Weiss running through the center of the village, the 800-year-old Kaysersberg Castle looking down from above and rolling green hills clad in vines surrounding the village.

Make sure to take the steps up to the top of the castle for beautiful views over the village and the surrounding countryside or drive up into the vines just outside of Kaysersberg for even more impressive views.

Combine This Small Town in France With…

Kaysersberg is situated at an equal distance between Strasbourg and Basel and would make an excellent weekend getaway from Paris.

Châteauneuf-en-Auxois

From Kerri of Beer and Croissants

Châteauneuf-en-Auxois is located in the heart of the Burgundy wine-producing region. Its position high on a hill in the Auxois Valley made it the perfect spot for one of the area’s strategic fortresses, the Châteauneuf Castle.   

Today the castle is the main reason why visitors are attracted to this small town.  With a resident population of under 100, it is quintessentially French with its narrow, cobbled laneways lined with the houses of a bygone era. 

Many of these medieval buildings from the 14th-century still exist, some of which have been turned into small art galleries or gourmet food stores selling locally produced items.  It is perfect for spending a few hours just walking around.  In the summertime, many of the houses are adorned with beautiful flowers and ivy.

The northern entrance to the town is where one of the original gates to this former walled town can be seen.  The gate is also a marker for the access point to one of the best views over the valley.  Follow the signs to Pont de Vue and La Croix de Mission to find the lookout.

If you can’t get enough of this town, consider also going to the nearby town of Vandenesse-en-Auxois.  Located right on the Bourgogne Canal, it offers a majestic view of the fairytale castle from ground level.

Châteauneuf-en-Auxois is easily accessible by vehicle from two of Burgundy’s most prominent cities, Dijon and Beaune. 

The short distance takes around 45 minutes from either location and as such makes for a perfect road trip in the Burgundy region .

From Josie of Josie Wanders

The village of Riquewihr in the Alsace region of France is truly adorable. The walled town center is filled with traditional half-timbered houses that are painted in all colors of the rainbow.  In spring and summer, they are covered in wisteria and other vines and it’s such a romantic place to just sit and enjoy.

Being in the Alsace region, Riquewihr is nestled in amongst wineries, and tasting some of the local wines can be done right on the main street. There’s also plenty of locally produced food too. Look out for delicious bakeries, cheese shops, and small goods.

There is a small museum located in town, and one section of the medieval walls can be accessed to explore, but just wandering the streets is captivating enough for a relaxed visit. If you stay overnight, look out for the nightly light show at the upper gate of the town.

Riquewihr is also located on the Grand Crus, the Alsace wine trail so it is a great location for a hike amongst the vineyards if you are looking for a more active visit.

Riquewihr is less than one hour from Strasbourg or twenty minutes from Colmar, so is a perfect day trip from either of these larger cities.

From Claire of ZigZag On Earth

Etretat is one of the most beautiful places in Normandy and in France overall.

This small French town, surrounded by impressive white cliffs, has inspired many artists through the centuries, including Claude Monet.

In Etretat, you will appreciate the typical brick houses from the region and a few more ancient ones. But what makes Etretat special is the surrounding nature.

It is located in a valley ending with a beach, and some of the best things to do are to walk to the top of the cliffs on both sides for some of the most magnificent views of the 80-meter-high cliffs made of white chalk, visit the famous sea stack called l’Aiguille Creuse (meaning hollow needle), and check out several arches including Manneporte, which stretches 50 meters high!

Plus, at low tide, you can enjoy those structures with a perspective from below thanks to tunnels dug inside the cliffs.

Etretat is only a 2h30min drive from Paris. Therefore, it can be visited as a day trip. However, it deserves at least 2 days for you to discover its beauty.

From Lee and Stacey of One Trip at a Time

Honfleur, a romantic picturesque little port, is the highlight of a trip along the Normandy coast. Thankfully it escaped the bombs of WWII, so it retains its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and pretty harbor that is lined with inviting outdoor cafés.

Historically Honfleur is important as it was from here that Samuel de Champlain sailed in the early 1600s to North America and founded Quebec City. More recently it was very popular in the 19th-century as a magnet for artists, such as Boudin and Monet, who propped up their easels to paint the colorful scenes of the Vieux Bassin .

A  day in Honfleur  could include visits to the wooden Ste. Catherine Church with a roof that looks like the upturned hull of a ship, the stone  Lieutenance  which was once the King’s Lieutenant residence and includes the  Porte de Caen  (a city gate), or the  Musée de la Marine  housed in a 14th-century church which traces the history of the port.

Honfleur is about 2.5 hours from Paris and about 20 minutes from the nearby port city of Le Havre. This makes it both a popular day trip from the capital and for cruise passengers spending a day in port in Le Havre.

From Gabrijela of Under Flowery Sky

The picturesque French village of Giverny is an amazing getaway from the busy streets of Paris. Monet’s famous gardens in Giverny will offer you the gift of paintings, of impressionism that rules here. Who wouldn’t like to be caught in such a fantasy?

The train doesn’t go directly to Giverny but to Vernon where the tourist train will await. It’s needed to buy train tickets online much in advance as it’s much cheaper. Tickets for the Monet’s garden can also be purchased online which is advisable because of the long lines.

Gardens are divided into two sections, one of which includes the house itself immersed into the colorful world of flowers. The popular lake with the bridge and occasional lilies is located on the other side of the road, also known as the Japanese water garden.

Giverny contains also the Museum of Impressionism as well as many galleries around the villages and cute restaurants or bars. Some hiking opportunities are easy to make through the charming countryside leading also to Vernon. Vernon is also a lovely town to roam around.

Giverny is located about 1.5 hours from Paris via train (or less, depending on the route) and is a popular day trip from the capital.

Sainte-Mère-Église

From Stephanie of History Fangirl

Many people come to Normandy to see the D-Day museums, cemeteries, and the beaches of Normandy where the Allied troops began their invasion of France and their onward march towards Germany. However, there are a few villages where important D-Day events took place.

One French village you don’t want to leave off your D-Day itinerary is Sainte-Mère-Église. Located just an hour from Cherbourg, Sainte-Mère-Église played a historic part in Operation Overlord. Because of its location, the Allies expected that the Germans would need to come through here in order to counter their beach attack.

Thus, in the early morning on June 6, the U.S. 82nd Airborne and U.S. 101st Airborne Divisions landed here and occupied the town. Paratroopers landed in the town and wrested it from the Germans, holding them off for over a day before reinforcements could come in and assist.

While here make sure to visit the town’s church. This is where American John Steele got his parachute caught on the church. He hung off the church and played dead for hours before being taken by the Germans as a prisoner of war. During D-Day celebrations today, the town decorates the church with a paratrooper in his honor.

You can easily visit Sainte-Mère-Église from Cherbourg, Bayeaux, or Callais.

From Elisa of World in Paris

Senlis is a picturesque small town and one of the easiest  day trips from Paris . It is located 50km north of Paris, not far from Château de Chantilly. In fact, it is possible to visit both Château de Chantilly and Senlis on a full-day trip from Paris.

Senlis is a medieval town with a very interesting history. It was the place where Hugh Capet was elected king by his barons in 987 so it became a royal city until the reign of Charles X.

Visitors to Senlis still can see the remains of the Capets’ palace and other constructions related to them. From medieval times there’s also Notre Dame, the town’s gothic cathedral built in the 12th century, and the winding cobbled streets named after medieval trades. These streets are lined with mansions mainly from the 17th and 18th centuries along with some beautiful houses.

Senlis is a great place for a leisurely stroll to admire its rich heritage, perhaps with a break in a cafe-terrace for a drink in the sun. The town also has 3 small but interesting museums about history, art, and archaeology.

Senlis is easily visited as a day trip from Paris.

Mont Saint-Michel

This tiny island is one of the most popular villages in France, and its sheer beauty, impressive history, and unique location make it easy to see why.

Located on a small tidal island where the Cousenon River spills into the Atlantic Ocean, once upon a time, part of Mont Saint-Michel’s fortification came from the fact that it could only be accessed at low tide!

Today, access to the small island is available year-round, where visitors eagerly explore the charming village and historical abbey.

Mont Saint-Michel is most easily accessed by car, though you can arrive by train as well. The village makes an excellent overnight trip from Paris.

Villefranche-sur-Mer

From Veronika of Travel Geekery

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque seaside village located on the outskirts of Nice on the French Riviera. It’s a popular weekend getaway for Nice residents since it features a lot nicer pebble beaches.

The village is laid back and relatively quiet. The historical center is a maze of narrow winding streets that open up to little charming squares. On one of them, the impressive St. Michael’s church stands. A nearby chapel of St. Elisabeth has a wonderfully painted front façade.

For the best views of Villefranche Bay, head to the Villefranche Citadel, which now houses several museums. From its gardens, you’ll be able to see the beautiful seafront. Sometimes, monumental cruise ships anchor in Villefranche Bay, since the water is deep even quite close to the shore. It’s a unique sight!

You can easily visit Villefranche  on a day trip from Nice  since it’s located only a 15-minute ride away. 

With its winding canals, colorful architecture, incredible food scene, and perfect location just south of Geneva and next door to Lake Annecy, the charming village of Annecy is definitely one of the best small towns in France.

While you’re there, be sure to visit the Chateau d’Annecy and beautiful Lake Annecy–you can even rent a paddleboat to enjoy the lake during the summer.

You’ll also want to make time for snapping photos of Annecy’s most iconic view at the Palais de l’Isle, wandering aimlessly through the Vielle Ville, and lots of long, lingering meals!

Annecy’s delicious Alpine cuisine features plenty of delicious French cheese: definitely don’t leave town without trying a raclette and a tartiflette.

You can visit Annecy on a day trip to Geneva, but spending at least one night in town will definitely enhance your experience. If possible, plan your visit for a Tuesday, Friday, or Sunday, as these are Annecy’s market days!

From Hanna of Solar Powered Blonde

Roussillon is one of the most beautiful towns in Provence. Perched on a hilltop, it has a very famous main square, Place de la Mairie, surrounded by many streets to wander along.

The main square has the signature red brick of Roussillon. The red bricks come from the Ochre deposits in the earth.

There are lots of lovely things to do in Roussillon ! Follow the Ochre Trail starting from the edge of the town through orange and red cliffs either side. There are plenty of lovely cafes and some great viewpoints around Roussillon. Be sure to stop at a cafe right on the edge of the hilltop for the best views, and a Croque Monsieur! There are also a few art galleries for art lovers. Spend a few hours wandering around and stopping for lunch. 

Moustiers Sainte Marie is around 1.5 hours from Roussillon and well worth the trip. Also a quaint town, and this time perched right on the side of a cliff. Moustiers Sainte Marie is a very unique town due to its placement on the cliff and the river that splits the town in two, with a small bridge to cross over. 

Roussillon is located in the Luberon Valley of Provence and is easy to combine with a day in other popular Provencal towns like Gordes and Bonnieux.

From Angela of Where Angie Wanders

The charming village of Eze is a hidden gem along the French Riviera. This medieval hilltop village is fascinating to visit with its cobbled streets, artisan shops, and charming cafes and restaurants.  

Eze is like something from a fairy-tale with tiny doors and baby-blue window shutters offering protection from the intense sunshine. Beautiful flowering plants trail down centuries-old stone walls and cafes offer stunning patio areas to enjoy refreshments.

The village is perched at the top of a very steep hill so be sure to wear flat shoes for your ascent to the top. When you reach the summit, the 360-degree views are worth the climb and the botanical gardens perched there are definitely worth a visit.

On your descent stop off at the 5-star Chateau Eze to enjoy a coffee or maybe lunch on their veranda. The view from the hotel is almost as breath-taking as those at the summit.

Eze is an excellent day trip from Nice  by train in under 1 hour or alternatively by car in 25 minutes. Both methods will take you along the stunning coastline of the Cote D’Azur before your arrival in Eze.

Oppède Le Vieux

From Nadine of Le Long Weekend

Unlike many other villages in Provence , Oppède le Vieux has somehow managed to stay under the tourist radar and has remained wonderfully authentic, both in its appearance and in its daily rhythm.

Wandering through the stone-clad streets is like stepping back in time, to a place less hurried and steeped in mystique.

Wander up towards the ancient castle ruins and you’ll find entire houses enveloped by nature, left to decay beautifully on the side of the old stone staircase. The 12th century Notre-Dame d’Alidon chapel still stands intact, though, and it cuts a striking figure against the agrarian backdrop.

In the center of the village, you’ll find just two eateries and a couple of guesthouses, meaning life here is never bustling. But visit on a Saturday morning when the petite market takes place and you’ll find a convivial mood takes over the town.

Oppède le Vieux makes an easy day trip from the cultural city of Avignon, which sits less than an hour to the west. It’s a fabulous place to visit on a tour of the Luberon Valley.

From Skye of Skye Travels

High in the French Alps and on the border of Italy is the quaint skiing village of Tignes . This village hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics freestyle skiing and the European Winter X Games in 2010 and 2011.

The valley is surrounded by ski slopes which pull in quite a big local and international crowd each year, even though the village itself only has a population of 2,000.

If you visit during the summer, you can go mountain biking down any of the dozens of mountain trails. If you have a bit more time, Tignes is located on the GR 5 Alpine Trail and you can hike part of it and spend a night in a refuge.

It’s also worth taking a walk down to Lac de Chervil. In WWII, the French built a dam on the valley, creating a reservoir and flooding the original village. If you bring your diving gear, you can see the eerie remains of the buildings.

Although Tignes is on the very edge of France, you can reach it from Lyon in 3 hours or Chambery in 2 hours.

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Cassis is one of the most adorable and charming villages in Provence, an area that is world-famous for its charming villages. There are so many enjoyable things to do in Cassis, from relaxing on the beach to rambling around the tiny streets taking in the architecture and quaint fountains. One of the prettiest buildings in Cassis is the City Hall, known as the Hotel de Ville in French. 

The most famous thing to do in Cassis is pick up a tour boat in the harbor and take a ride around the gorgeous Calanques of Provence. These Calanques are intricate inlets made out of limestone scattered around the coast of Provence. You absolutely must see them on your visit to the region!

After your boat trip, kick back with a relaxing drink in one of the cafes right on Cassis’s harbor. Just don’t order a creme de cassis, which has no connection to Cassis the town. Try a glass of local rose instead. 

Cassis makes an excellent day trip from Marseille as it is less than an hour’s drive away.

From Ashley of My Wanderlusty Life

Chamonix is a lovely little alpine town situated at the junction of France, Italy, and Switzerland. The majority of Chamonix sits in a narrow valley at the base of Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in the Alps and all of Western Europe.

Because of its location, Chamonix has become a haven for skiers and other winter sports enthusiasts and was actually the site of the first-ever Winter Olympics in 1924. However, it’s in the summer when Chamonix really shines.

There is a long list of things to do in Chamonix in the summer  but you’ll find outdoor adventures like hiking, trail running, paragliding, and climbing at the top.

Down in the town you can stroll the beautiful streets with views of the Alps on all sides of you.

You can enjoy alpine classics like fondue and raclette, a staple of the Savoie region of France where Chamonix is located. You can ride an old mountain train to Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier, and even go inside it.

But the most popular Chamonix activity is riding the world’s highest vertical ascent cable car to the top of the Aiguille du Midi, a 12,605-foot peak with incredible views of the Mont Blanc massif. 

At just an hour away, Chamonix is easily visited from Geneva, Switzerland. You can also reach Chamonix from Paris in about 3 hours.

Tucked into a quiet corner of Provence’s Luberon Valley, not far from more popular spots like Gordes and Bonnieux, sits the adorable, charming French town of Goult.

Goult gets far fewer tourists than its more famous neighbors, and while there is very little to do in town (this is a place much more about the atmosphere than a checklist of touristic highlights), it is stunningly beautiful, an incredibly relaxing place to visit, and an ideal spot for savoring a slow afternoon in France.

If you would like to see Goult at its busiest, plan your visit for a Thursday to enjoy Goult’s phenomenal weekly market.

Goult is an easy addition to a Luberon Valley itinerary and is located about a 15-minute drive from Bonnieux and a 20-minute drive from Gordes.

From Ann of The Road is Life

Gordes is without a doubt one of the prettiest and most popular little villages to visit in  France . Located in the beautiful Luberon Valley of Provence, this little hilltop village is truly like a scene from a fairy tale.

Wandering through the narrow alleys and side streets of the village is one of the best things to do. Around each corner, you will find cute cafes, bakeries, little shops, and stunning viewpoints that look out over the valley below.

Every Tuesday morning, the town center of Gordes comes to life with the weekly market. Colorful stalls are set up through the streets selling fresh produce, clothing, jewelry, lavender sachets, delicious cheese, olives and so much more!

If you happen to be in Gordes on a Tuesday, you really cannot miss out on the Gordes market!

Another must-do is seeing the Gordes town viewpoint  at sunrise or sunset. The view of the village lit up in the most beautiful lighting of the day is truly a magical sight.

Visiting Gordes makes an excellent day trip option from Avignon or Marseille, being just over a one hour drive from both cities.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is absolutely one of the best small towns in France to visit, featuring colorful streets, a beautiful carousel, an incredible weekly market, and a phenomenal location at the foot of the Alpilles.

The village is perhaps best known for hosting a very famous resident for one year of his life: Vincent Van Gogh lived at the local Saint Paul Monastery for a year, where he painted Starry Night and other masterpieces.

You can follow Van Gogh’s steps through Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, but even if you’re not interested in art history, this charming town is bound to delight.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence can easily be fit into a Provence itinerary that includes other Alpilles villages like Les Baux-de-Provence. 

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From Paul of The Two That Do

Located just 7km northwest of Grenoble in the southeast of France,  the village of Sassenge boasts an enviable position close to the verdant Vercors Natural Park and is one of the best small towns in France to visit.

Sitting dramatically at the base of an imposing cliff adorable Sassenage may be small in stature but it is rich in attractions.

Visitors attracted by the Sassenage Cistern system of caves, charming waterfalls, and the magnificent Sassenage Château. Built between 1662 and 1669 the Château is a magnificent example of 17th-century French architecture and its adjacent 19th Century designed park perfect for evening strolls beneath majestic cedar, walnut, and red maple trees.

Seemingly like most of rural France Sassenage is also famed for rich gastronomic heritage. Head to Quai du Furon on the banks of Le Furon river in the heart of the ancient village for the most scrumptious steak frites and vin rouge.

With all this splendor and its close proximity to the fabulous Grenoble-Bastille cable car offering unsurpassed views over the Isère region Sassenage is one of those unpretentious and charming villages you will remember forever.

Sassenage makes a lovely day trip from Grenoble.

From Hannah of That Adventurer

Rocamadour is a small, beautiful, and unique looking town in the Dordogne Valley region of south-central France. What makes this small French village unique is the way it has been built into the side of a rock face.

Known as the “Sacred City”, Rocamadour is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been an important destination for pilgrims walking the St James’ Way for centuries. On any given day, you’ll likely see pilgrims climbing up the town’s 216 steps on their knees to the Sanctuary and its 8 chapels where they worship the Black Madonna ( Vierge Noire).

As a visitor, you can’t pass up the chance to walk the 216 yourself and admit the beauty of this 12th Century chapel. Although, you can also take the elevator if that sounds better to you! The castle on top of the cliff that was built to protect the Sanctuary below is another must-see as you learn about the history and admire the views.

Nearby, one of the best things to do in the Dordogne Valley , The Padirac Caves, are worth visiting. The largest caves in Europe are so big that you can even enjoy a boat ride along the Lac de la Pluie once inside!

Rocamadour is 2 hours away from the beautiful city of Toulouse and a 3-hour drive from Bordeaux making it ideal as a day trip or weekend escape from the city!

Saint-Emilion

The legendary Saint-Emilion is known for its wine, history, and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As one of the most visually stunning French villages, you can’t miss a stay here!

During your trip to Saint-Emilion, be sure to tour the magnificent Monolithic Church, climb to the top of a bell tower, tour a chateau or two, and soak in the views from all sides.

Whether you’re a wine lover or simply a traveler who enjoys the countryside, you can’t go wrong with a trip to St. Emilion.

Combine This Small Town in France With…  

Saint-Emilion is located less than an hour east of Bordeaux, making it easy to combine the two into one fabulous trip.

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The village’s cobbled narrow streets are lined with immaculately kept houses. Their ancient stone facades feature typically French blue-shuttered windows and are covered with vines. Look out for the pretty belfry and the medieval arched gateways as you stroll the quiet alleys.  

Apart from a couple of galleries and restaurants, there’s very little commerce in Bruniquel, and that indeed is part of its charm. 

Bruniquel makes the perfect day trip from Toulouse as it’s just an hour’s drive away.

From Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

If you’re looking for a small town in France that looks like it jumped right out of the pages of a fairytale book, Carcassonne is hard to beat.

Perched strategically high up on a hill, this location has been fortified and occupied ever since Roman times, but it’s the medieval incarnation of Carcassonne that makes it such a rewarding destination today.

However, the town walls and the 52 towers that punctuate it were heavily restored in the 19th century, and in some aspects, it now represents what people then imagined a medieval town to look like, rather than what it actually looked like in its medieval heyday.

Nevertheless, wandering the cobblestone streets of the fortified Cité and gazing up at the pointed slate roofs of the towers certainly feels like stepping back in time. You can wander around most of the Cité for free, but it’s worth paying the 9.50 euro admission fee to enter the Count’s Castle, known as the “Château Comtal” in French.

Carcassonne is easily visited as a day trip from Toulouse , although it’s a good idea to stay overnight so you can see it in the early morning and evening without the crowds of daytrippers.

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

From Pauline of Beeloved City

If you are looking for a beautiful and historic village in southwest France , Saint-Cirq-Lapopie will be perfect for you!

This medieval village is perched on the edge of a cliff, a bit like Rocamadour, and offers both wonderful architecture and views over the river Lot. It was awarded as one of the “most beautiful villages in France”.

You can wander around the narrow streets and discover what an authentic french village is really like. 

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is home to a lot of artists and you will find a few local galleries. Feel free to walk in and enjoy the art pieces. 

It’s also a great place to get a nice meal. Food in the southwest is very traditional. If you never had foie gras, that would be a good place to try it. A cassoulet or confit de canard would also be a good option. And of course, let’s not forget the cheese! You can opt for a cabecou (round-shaped goat cheese).

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a popular day trip from Toulouse. Ideally, you will need to rent a car but you can also choose to go on a tour.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

From Alya and Campbell of Stingy Nomads

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is one of the loveliest small towns in France and is located a mere 8 kilometers from the border with Spain. The history of the town dates back to 1177. For centuries the town was an important point on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

St. Jean is located at the foothill of the pass over the Pyrenees that connects France and Spain. Thousands of pilgrims from all over Europe stopped here on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Now the Camino Frances , one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in Europe, starts here. 

Pilgrimage is not the only reason tourists come to St. Jean. It’s a picturesque town in the Pyrenees, surrounded by the emerald fields and lush green forest. There are plenty of historical sites to see here such as the Citadel, the Medieval Wall surrounding the town, Notre-Dame-du-Bout-du-Pont,  a 14th-century Gothic church.

St. Jean is a great place to spend a day wandering around the narrow cobbled streets, enjoying lunch or coffee with a freshly-baked croissant at one of the restaurants, exploring the Citadel, and buying souvenirs. 

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port can be visited as a day trip from Biarritz/Bayonne. There is a direct daily train to St.Jean from Bayonne. The journey takes 1 hour 20 minutes. 

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

14 Must-Have Experiences In France After You’ve Seen Paris

• Bucket List Trips
• Destinations
• Types of Travel

Can one even come to France without visiting Paris? The ideal trip to France includes spending time in the City of Light and experiencing these unforgettable things to do and then heading out to explore the other marvels that France has to offer. These 14 magnificent must-have experiences in France offer a glimpse into French culture, history, and her natural beauty. Each experience listed below can be done as a stand-alone exploration of France or used as a jumping-off point for further travel in the area.

Here are my choices for 14 must-have experiences in France.

1. Visit Magical Mont Saint Michel

A Benedictine abbey perched on a pinnacle of rock that has been calling pilgrims for centuries, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most visited locations in France. It’s no wonder. This UNESCO World Heritage Site rises from the sea, a spectacular sight that takes your breath away both at high tide and low tide.

Read about the tides at Mont Saint-Michel and tips to know before going.

Pro Tip: Wear good walking shoes for walking the cobbled streets. It’s an uphill climb to the abbey.

2. Climb Europe’s Highest Sand Dune At The Dune du Pilat

How will you summit this mountain of sand that has been around for thousands of years? I chose to climb the staircase of 168 steps and then scoot down the mountain of soft white sand in my bare feet. The Dune du Pilat in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region is one of France’s natural heritage sites. It stretches for 1.7 miles and is 328 feet high. The pine scent from the Landes Forest and the salty sea air are welcome companions as you pause on top of Europe’s highest sand dune and stare out to sea.

Pro Tip: The staircase is installed each year from the end of May until early November. The Dune du Pilat is the perfect day trip from Bordeaux .

3. Wander Through Lavender Fields In Provence

It’s one thing to see photographs. But standing in a vibrant purple field of lavender as it gently sways in the wind is something else. Row upon row of lavender stretches out towards the horizon and the delicate scent is unforgettable.

Two of my favorite places to see lavender in full bloom are the Valensole Plateau — where exquisite purple hues greet you — and at the Abbey of Senanque, where the backdrop is a 12th-century monastery. Here are other top locations to find lavender fields in Provence and this guide will help you plan a full trip through Provence .

Pro Tip: Watch out for the bees, they also love the lavender!

4. Visit Monet’s Stunning Gardens At Giverny

It’s a breathtaking experience to see Claude Monet’s impressionist paintings in Paris. His Water Lilies canvasses with their magical use of light, color, and water immerse the viewer in a serene natural setting. Travel to Giverny, Monet’s home in Normandy, to see firsthand where his inspiration came from.

Pink and white water lilies grace the ponds, an explosion of colors and scents greets you in the garden, and walking through the house where Monet lived is all part of the Giverny experience. Be sure to spend time exploring the small town and look for Claude Monet’s gravestone in the church cemetery.

Pro Tip: These articles on How to Visit Giverny and How To Spend a Day in Giverny will help you plan the perfect day trip from Paris.

5. Be Awed By The Luxurious Chateau de Versailles

The Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect day trip from Paris and a must-have experience in France. In the 17th century, King Louis XIV turned his fathers hunting lodge into an incredible palace with magnificent gardens. The Palace of Versailles was the residence of the king and the seat of France’s government for a hundred years. 

The Palace of Versailles is enormous, so plan to stay the day. For first-timers, know the key places to see such as the Hall of Mirrors and Marie Antoinette’s Palaces of Trianon. Be sure to spend time amidst the spectacular fountains and time your visit for one of the musical fountain shows.

Pro Tip: Here are tips to help you plan your trip to Versailles . Interested in taking a bike tour of Versailles? Here is how .

6. Be Moved By The D-Day Beaches In Normandy

On June 6, 1944, more than 150,000 Allied troops landed along the French coast of Normandy in the largest seaborne invasion in history. The Allied troops landed at five different beaches along a 50-mile stretch of coastline. The Americans landed at Utah and Omaha Beaches, the British at Gold and Sword Beaches, and the Canadians at Juno Beach. Visiting the D-Day Beaches lays this incredible moment in history right before your eyes. It’s impossible not to be moved by the memorials, graveyards, and monuments and to stop for a while and appreciate the young soldiers who gave their lives for our freedom today.

Pro Tip: Here are some things to know before visiting Omaha Beach .

7. Stand Amidst The Carnac Alignments In Brittany

The Carnac Alignments, the largest megalithic complex in the world, are in Brittany, France. The standing stones at Carnac are the best-preserved prehistoric stones in Europe. It’s a true wonder to stand amidst the 3,000 stones that stretch as far as the eye can see. In the off-season, one can wander amidst the stones. In peak season the gate is closed. A little train or open-air bus takes you on a tour of the large area.

Pro Tip: Here is more travel inspiration for the Carnac Alignments and for Brittany, France .

8. Stroll The Ramparts And Beaches Of Saint-Malo

Stroll the granite ramparts of Saint-Malo, a port city in Brittany, and enjoy views over the beaches, the English Channel, and the medieval city. Imagine this fortified town where privateers, pirates approved by the king, once lived. Explore the medieval core of the city under the soaring spire of Saint Vincent Cathedral and then head to the beaches. Saint-Malo has the highest tidal range in Europe, making for golden sandy expanses that stretch for miles.

Pro Tip: Stay a few days and enjoy classic Brittany with crepes, cider, mussels, and the iconic blue and white striped clothing. Here is everything you need to know about spending a full day in Saint-Malo .

9. Travel To The Medieval Citadel of Carcassonne

For history buffs and castle lovers, Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-have experience in France. With its 52 towers and almost 2 miles of ramparts to walk, the ancient fortified city of Carcassonne perched on a hilltop over the Aude River is impressive. There has been a settlement at Carcassonne for almost 2,500 years, and traces of each period of history can be seen everywhere. There is plenty of exploring to do in the city, and this article will help you plan out the perfect day in Carcassonne . If you are traveling further a field in the Occitanie region of France, don’t miss these beautiful villages .

10. Visit The Fairytale Château De Chenonceau

What’s a trip to France without seeing a château (castle) or two? There are plenty of castles throughout France, but the Loire Valley is the top destination for visiting the best of France’s castles. The elegance of Chenonceau Castle is immediately apparent as it appears to float over the River Cher. This historic monument with its fabulous gardens has been designed, protected, and restored by a succession of women throughout history.

Be inspired to visit these other magical castles in the Loire Valley as well.

11. Play In The Great Outdoors At The Gorges Du Verdon

The emerald green waters glistening in the summer sunshine below the soaring limestone cliffs make a spectacular setting in the south of France. The Gorges du Verdon, one of Europe’s largest canyons, is a veritable playground for those that love the outdoors. Kayak, paddle board, or pedal boat in the magnificent waters. Avid hikers have a plethora of trails to choose from. Visit Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a designated “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” nearby. 

Pro Tip: Read these tips for visiting the Gorges du Verdon here .

12. Stand Before The Ancient Bayeux Tapestry

You can easily spend a day visiting Bayeux in Normandy, France, or use it as a base for visiting the D-Day beaches. Bayeux is a lovely old town sitting on the Aure River. Since a young child, I had wanted to visit the Bayeux Tapestry, a UNESCO Memory of the World Register. The Bayeux Tapestry, over 900 years old, depicts the story of William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings, after which he became the King of England. It’s a stunning piece of embroidery, and examining the scenes of daily medieval life is fascinating. I love thinking of the women (most likely) who created this for posterity.

Pro Tip: The Bayeux Tapestry is presented beautifully in a darkened room where no photos are allowed to be taken.

13. Wander Through The Christmas Market In Strasbourg

What finally got me to Strasbourg, although it had been on my list for a while, was the famous Christmas Market, Christkindelmärik. France’s oldest Christmas market — which started in 1570 — has over 300 stalls set up in the city’s squares. The twinkling lights and Christmas decorations make for a magical experience. The variety of marvelous goods at the stalls makes it hands down the best Christmas market I have ever been to.

Don’t miss Place Kleber, where the enormous Christmas tree stands, and be sure to taste Bredele, the buttery Alsation Christmas cookies.

The lovely center island of Strasbourg , in the Alsace region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to stroll through the quaint area of La Petite France where half-timbered houses line the canals.

Pro Tip: It was much colder than I anticipated because it is a very damp cold. Dress warmly.

14. Climb The Steps At The Pilgrimage Hotspot Of Rocamadour 

Rocamadour, a UNESCO Heritage medieval site, has been attracting pilgrims, miracles, and visitors since the year 1105. Situated in the Lot region of France and perched on a cliff, the town of Rocamadour has seven medieval chapels carved into the cliffside overlooking the River Alzou. Climb the 216 steps of the Grand Staircase (or take the elevator) and be sure to visit the Chapel of Notre Dame housing the famous wooden Black Madonna and the Chapel of Saint-Michel with its stunning frescoes and the crypt of Saint-Amadour.

Pro Tip: Since you are right here it seems appropriate to savor the local specialty, creamy Rocamadour goat cheese. It’s the perfect addition to a picnic.

For more on France , check out these articles:

• France’s Atlantic Coast Vs. Mediterranean Coast: 7 Key Differences To Know
• 5 Fabulous Champagne Houses To Visit In France
• 9 Things To Pack For Paris To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist

Alison Browne, a modern-day nomad, landed in Paris after exploring the world as a solo traveler. She shares her travel stories and best tips at Dreamer at Heart . Six years ago, she wrapped up her career as an elementary school teacher and set out to explore new destinations and connect with people of different cultures. Her curious spirit has led her to travel throughout Europe, Asia, South East Asia, and Central and South America. France kept calling her back and she listened. Now based in Paris, Alison spends her time exploring the City of Light and writing about her adventures. La vie est belle! Find her on Instagram!

The newly released eBook "Experience Paris: Finding the Joy of Slow Travel" includes a BONUS for a limited-time offer!

Autumn in France: 15 Magical Destinations to Visit in Fall 2024

Curious about what autumn in france is like and which places are best to visit in the fall i’ve got you covered.

As the leaves start to change and the air gets a bit crisper, there’s no denying that France in autumn is magical. This is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit this country, with its charming villages and breathtaking scenery showcasing all the colours of fall.

France in the fall becomes more cozy. Most of the tourists have come and gone. And France returns back to her joie de vivre (enjoyment of living) self again. And, I’ve seen that change, as I travelled to France in September, October, November, and December.

There’s just something je ne sais quoi about French autumn. The light becomes more golden. The swosh of the wind as it rustles through the trees. The swirl of the leaves underfoot as you stroll the streets. Even the coziness of sitting in a cafe or a bistro with a warm delicious meal and drink. Magical.

In this article, I’ll take you to some of the best places to visit in France in autumn. From the east to the west and from Paris to the south let this be your inspiration to plan your next trip. So grab a scarf, don your beret and let’s dive into all things autumn season in France!

Table of Contents

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Top 8 Reasons Autumn in France is the Perfect Time to Visit

• Scenic beauty : The autumn colours in France are simply breathtaking, with a palette of golds, oranges and reds that paint the countryside and cities alike.
• Mild weather : September and October are still relatively warm without having to bundle up against the cold.
• Fewer crowds : Unlike summer when tourists flock to France in droves, autumn is a quieter season with fewer crowds jostling for space at popular attractions.
• Lower prices : Since it’s shoulder season between peak summer and winter travel periods, you can often find better deals on flights, accommodations and attractions during autumn.
• Festivals and events : autumn is the festival season in France, with plenty of cultural events such as art exhibitions, food festivals, and more taking place across the country.
• Delicious cuisine : autumn brings an abundance of fresh produce including mushrooms, chestnuts, truffles and game meats which are incorporated into traditional French dishes making them even more delicious.
• Wine harvest : Late September into October marks grape harvesting time, or vendange where many regions of France hold plenty of wine-tasting events.
• Quaint small towns : The charm factor goes up a notch during fall when quaint little towns transform into picturesque settings adding even more romance to your holiday experience.

The only drawback of the autumn season in France is the days are shorter. C’est la vie !

1. Paris (Île de France)

Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most iconic and romantic destinations in the world. Known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, delicious cuisine and charming streetscapes , Paris is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best that Europe has to offer.

One of the things that Paris is most famous for is its stunning landmarks. From the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral to the Arc de Triomphe and Sacré-Cœur Basilica , there are countless awe-inspiring monuments dotted throughout this beautiful city.

Paris is also renowned for its rich artistic heritage. The city boasts some of the world’s finest art collections, with highlights including Musée d’Orsay ’s Impressionist masterpieces and the Louvre Museum with the famous Mona Lisa.

Beyond the famous landmarks, some of the best ways to experience Paris include:

• strolling the Paris streets – from the famous ones to the quaint cobblestone ones that are off the beaten path. When visiting Paris in autumn, the area to stroll is along the river Seine as the tall linden trees turn into gold
• visiting the parks and hidden gardens – where you’ll fall in love with fall in Paris as the bright summer flowers are replaced with orange, yellow and deep red chrysanthemums
• it wouldn’t be autumn in Paris if there weren’t those inevitable rainy days and the best thing to do is to explore the 19th-century secret covered passages dotted around the city

⭐️One of the best places to visit in France in October is Paris ! The city hosts so many festivals in the month of October – two huge city-wide celebrations of art and culture are Nuit Blanche (White Night) and ParisArtistes . There’s also Jazz sur Seine , the famous Paris Fashion Week , and the annual  grape harvest festival  at a historic vineyard in Montmartre.

I love the River Seine Cruise for it’s a relaxing way to see the fall foliage check prices and book your dates

2. Épernay (Grand-Est)

Epernay is a gorgeous little town located in the idyllic countryside and is still easily accessible at just a 90-minute train ride from Paris , or 40 minutes from Reims . In the heart of Champagne country, this town is most well known for its history with the region’s famous bubbly wine .  Epernay  and the surrounding area will appeal to many visitors, whether you’re a wine connoisseur or not.

For champagne lovers, you can enjoy champagne tastings, vineyard tours , and discovering the region’s Champagne Route . One of the town’s main streets, the Avenue de Champagne, is lined with some of the most famous champagne houses and underground cellars that house over 200 million bottles of champagne . For others, Epernay’s history, quaint historic center, cozy cafes, and walking trails in the beautiful surrounding countryside offer a relaxing and interesting trip.

Here are some of the best things to do in Epernay:

• explore the charming old town center , where you can marvel at the gorgeous Notre Dame Cathedral of Epernay
• visit the Chateau Perrier , a stunning example of Late Romantic Era French architecture. This chateau and garden is now a fascinating museum about champagne and regional history
• learn more about the history of champagne, in the nearby village of Hautvillers to see the Abbey of St. Pierre , where Dom Perignon, a monk who greatly contributed to champagne production, is buried

⭐️Autumn is the best time to visit Epernay because the grape harvest happens between mid-September and mid-October ; you’ll get to see the bustling region in action. It’s a great time to get the full experience, learning how champagne is made from harvesting the grapes to production to exporting the finished product.

Day Trip From Paris to Champagne with 8 Tastings & Lunch Tour : visit a Champagne House in Epernay and have a leisurely lunch followed by a vineyards tour in Hautvillers. Check prices and book your dates.

3. Strasbourg (Grand-Est)

As the capital of France’s Grand Est region, Strasbourg beckons visitors from around the world. It’s known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and savoury cuisine. But that’s not all. Here you’ll find one of the most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in all of France, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg . It sits at a staggering 465 feet and took more than 300 years to build.

Then there’s La Petite France . This quaint neighbourhood is full of colourful half-timbered houses decorated with hanging baskets of red, white, and pink flowers. Strasbourg is also home to a ton of museums, including the Musée Alsacien and Musée des Beaux-Arts . So, whether you want to learn about the history of the region or marvel at local artwork, there’s a museum for you. And, if those are not enough reasons to visit, Strasbourg, is both the seat of the European Parliament and one of the four capitals of the European Union.

There’s no shortage of  things to do in Strasbourg . Here is a list of some of the top sites and attractions to visit while you’re here.

• Tucked away in Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral is the Astronomical Clock . The engineering marvel took a team of scientists and clockmakers to build. It not only tells the time but also shows the location of the planets. Then, every day at half past noon, figurines hidden within its walls exit and put on a show. It’s definitely something to see!
• While this region of France is known for its wine, Strasbourg is known for housing the oldest wine in the world . Located in the Historic Cellar of the Strasbourg Hospices, here you’ll find barrels from 1472 . You can tour the wine cellar, which dates to 1395, and learn about the history of this fascinating place.

⭐️One of the best times to visit Strasbourg is in Autumn. During this time of the year, the city is filled with vibrant golden hues . The best place to spot this beautiful fall foliage is in Strasbourg’s largest park, Parc de l’Orangerie .

Alsace Half-Day Wine Tour : There’s no better time to visit 2 wineries and learn about the 7 types of Alsace wines than during autumn harvest time! Check prices and book your dates.

4. Colmar (Grand-Est)

Colmar is located 65 kilometres south of Strasbourg, between the Vosges mountain range to the west and the Rhine River border with Germany to the east. It’s best known for its colourful, fairytale-like half-timbered houses and as the hometown of French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, who created the Statue of Liberty.

Also, it’s considered to be the capital of the Alsatian wine region and a key stop on the Alsatian Wine Route, which goes from Marlenheim in the north to Thann in the south.

This cute Alsatian city is worth at least a day trip to visit some of its highlights:

• Take time to wander the streets, especially the neighbourhood of Vieux Colmar . The most-photographed area is La Petite Venise, where the half-timbered buildings are painted in candy colours and tourists pass on flat-bottomed barques (boats).
• Visit the Bartholdi Museum and, if you have a car, drive past Colmar’s own Statue of Liberty. Musee Bartholdi is located at the sculptor’s birthplace, 30 rue des Marchands. It has artifacts related to the artist’s life and works, including plans and models of his most famous sculpture, the Statue of Liberty. Colmar’s own version of the statue, a 12-metre replica created for the 100th anniversary of Bartholdi’s death, stands in the centre of a roundabout on Route de Strasbourg/D83, just south of Lac de Colmar. 

⭐️In autumn, it’s harvest season, which makes it a great time to follow the Alsatian Wine Route and stop in Colmar for a taste of the white wines it’s best known for. The grape harvest in the region generally takes place between late September and late October , and in September it’s possible to spend a day picking grapes at some vineyards to help out.

4 Wonders of Alsace Day Tour: Along the Alsatian Wine Route visit the 4 picturesque villages of Eguisheim, Kayserberg, Ribeauvillé, and Riquewihr for some wine tasting. Check prices and book your dates.

5. Chamonix (Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes)

Chamonix is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Nestled in the French Alps , this charming mountain town is famous for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and world-class ski resorts.

Chamonix has been a popular destination for mountaineers since the 18 th  century , and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world today. The town is renowned for its access to Mont Blanc , the highest peak in Western Europe, and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Aside from mountaineering, Chamonix is a hub for all kinds of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing . The town has a vibrant culture and rich history that is reflected in its charming streets, architecture, and cuisine.

Wondering about things to do in Chamonix, here are three ideas.

• Take the Aiguille du Midi cable car: The Aiguille du Midi is one of the most famous peaks in the French Alps. The cable car ride to the summit takes visitors up to 3,842 metres, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. There’s even a restaurant at the top!
• Hike the trails of the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve : The Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve is a protected area of the French Alps that offers some of the most stunning hiking trails in the region. There are trails suitable for all fitness levels, so everyone can enjoy the beautiful views.
• Explore the town of Chamonix : The town of Chamonix itself is a charming destination that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its streets lined with traditional Savoyard buildings, bustling markets, and art galleries, there’s plenty to explore here. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the local raclette and tartiflette!

⭐️Chamonix’s high altitude and diverse terrain, including a mix of deciduous and coniferous forests, create ideal conditions for a unique fall foliage display. These conditions result in an explosion of colours, contrasted against the snow-capped mountains for a stunning visual experience that can only be enjoyed in Chamonix!

6. Nice (Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur)

If you’re looking for a destination to spend the fall in France that offers a stunning coastline, picturesque hillsides, and plenty of sunshine, then head to Nice in Côte D’Azur . Located on the French Riviera, this city is renowned for its vibrant culture and easy-going atmosphere. From world-class art galleries like the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain to incredible Michelin-starred restaurants like Pure & V , there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Besides the gorgeous year-round Mediterranean weather, Nice is a prime destination for its idealistic location on the French Riviera. You can easily see other noteworthy locales like Cannes, Antibes, Èze, and Monaco on a quick day trip . There are even tours that offer to see a few of these cities in one day! So if you are looking for the perfect central location to access and enjoy all the French Riviera has to offer, look no further than Nice.

There are lots of wonderful things to do in Nice , but here are a couple that might entice you:

• relax on the Promenade des Anglais or one of the private beach clubs and enjoy a classic Aperol spritz like a true local. But if you’re feeling adventurous you can try your hand at the many local watersports activities offered such as water-skiing and windsurfing, or simply taking a dip in the Mediterranean Sea .
• If you are looking to venture outside of the city, there is no shortage of exciting day trip options to enjoy. The medieval hilltop town of Èze is a truly romantic daytime getaway. Be sure to stop into the show-stopping Hôtel Château de La Chèvre d’Or perched on the hillside for a fabulous lunch at their restaurant. The world-famous Fragonard Perfumery is also located in Èze, see where some of the world’s most iconic fragrances like Chanel No. 5 were developed!

⭐️Autumn is the perfect time to visit because you can easily take a day trip to see the spectacular Monaco Yacht Show that only takes place in September every year. Boat enthusiasts from all over the world descend on the French Riviera to showcase what they’ve got and trust me – this is not a show you want to miss! And, for movie buffs, visit in October and attend the Nice Film Festival showcasing films from around the world.

French Riviera in One Day Tour: Visit Eze, Monaco, Antibes, Saint Paul de Vence and Cannes! I love this tour as it’s a way to see the best of the French Riviera. Check prices and book your dates!

7. Antibes (Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur)

Until you visit the French Riviera you can’t understand all the buzz about the area; people planning to move or retire there, people that keep going back. Then you visit and you are hooked too, immediately becoming one of them.

The French Riviera is dotted with incredibly charming and picturesque villages, but Antibes stands out as one of the prettiest. Antibes is a little coastal town nestled between Nice and Cannes with the Nice airport only being a 30-minute taxi ride.

Antibes attracts many for its rich history, stunning beaches, and quaint Mediterranean village charm but with modern-day allure. Even if Antibes is a small town it still offers many things to do and see to fill your days, here are a few ideas.

• Fort Carré , an impressive fort from the 16th century built just outside the town harbour
• Picasso Museum which houses an impressive collection of the artist’s work
• Marché Provençal , the bustling daily market, to experience the local flavours and fragrances
• Port Vauban , is home to an impressive array of yachts and provides the perfect setting for a leisurely evening stroll

⭐️Antibes in autumn is when you’ll get the best out of your visit. After the tourists are gone the market returns back to its origins of fulfilling the everyday needs of its locals. You can buy local specialties, like hot, tasty socca and plenty of bread, cheese and wine for those autumn picnics. Or take a stroll along the coastal path of Chemin de Tirepoil . Visit in early November and attend the Jammin’ Juan Jazz Festival  to hear some incredible jazz music.

8. Avignon (Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur)

Avignon is a charming city located in the South of France, known for its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene . One of the main reasons why Avignon is worth visiting is because of its famous Palais des Papes (Palace of Popes) . This impressive Gothic palace was once the residence of several popes during the 14th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site . You can explore the palace’s grand halls, chapels and courtyards while admiring breathtaking views over Avignon.

Other top sightseeing sites in Avignon include:

• the iconic 12th-century medieval Pont Saint-Bénezet (Saint Benezet Bridge), which spans across the Rhône River
• maze of narrow streets in Old Town with a 14th-century Clock Square or  Place de l’Horloge and 19th-century Opéra Grand Avignon , as well as Musée Angladon-Dubrujeaud and Musée du Petit Palais – two museums that house impressive collections of European paintings from medieval times up until the present day
• take a day trip to see some of the best villages in Luberon which is home to 7 Provence villages awarded the prestigious title of Plus Beaux Villages de France  or The Most Beautiful Villages of France

⭐️Avignon is a hub for art enthusiasts! Visit Avignon in autumn and attend the annual Parcours de l’Art (Contemporary Art Festival) from October 7 to 22, 2023 . This free event promotes contemporary painting, sculpture and photography. Visit the daily market in Avignon and you will see pumpkins (la Courge) everywhere in mid-October . A lot of food stalls will sell food made with squash, such as soupe à la courge, jams, cakes and more.

Half-Day Great Vineyards Tour: Visit villages and vineyards of the famous Côtes du Rhône! I love this tour as it’s a way to see and taste local wine right a peak harvest time. Check prices and book your dates!

9. Carcassonne (Occitanie)

Carcassonne is a city that’s divided in two by the meandering Aude River . On a hilltop overlooking the Aude River and the Ville Basse (Lower Town) is the Cité. It’s worth visiting Carcassonne just to see the impressive La Cité with its 52 turrets and 3km of ramparts waiting to be explored. It’s no wonder La Cité is considered one of the most exceptional examples of medieval fortifications in Europe .

Apart from visiting the fortifications and castle of the medieval Old Town, the city has a bustling market and a large number of interesting museums to visit. Best of all the city centre is relatively small so it’s easy to get around by foot and there are lots of historic sights to visit for free.

Although most tourists come to see the medieval citadel there are lots of interesting things to do in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the best things to do in the city are:

• a visit to Comtal Castle
• walk across the beautiful Pont Vieux bridge
• explore the farmer’s market at Bastide Saint Louis

⭐️Visiting Carcassonne in autumn is the perfect time to admire the beautiful shades of orange on the tree-lined Canal du Midi . There are many wine festivals in nearby vineyards. Starting in late August, the nearby village of Castelnaudary hosts a Cassoulet festival . This annual 5-day festival includes concerts, free street shows, growers’ markets, a gala meal and, of course, cassoulet served in every restaurant in town. 

10. Toulouse (Occitanie)

Within the Occitanie region of France, a lovely place to visit during Autumn is the capital city of Toulouse! This lively city is known for several different things. For one, Toulouse is commonly referred to as “ the pink city ” since several of the buildings display a pinkish hue as a result of the colour of the bricks that the buildings were made out of. And what’s neat is that the buildings take on a different shade of pink throughout the day based on where the sun is.

Another thing that makes Toulouse a great destination for visitors is the fact the city is home to France’s National Centre of Space Studies and the European Airbus headquarters. Both of these large aerospace institutions contribute to the city being regarded as the space capital of France ! So, if you enjoy seeing lots of colourful buildings or have a love for space, Toulouse is worth spending some time exploring around.

Here are a couple of interesting things to do around Toulouse .

• Capitole de Toulouse – a massive building dating back to the 12th century and functions as Toulouse’s city hall. Visitors can go inside for free and see beautiful murals on display, but the hours of visitation are limited.
• Basilique Saint-Sernin – is the largest Romanesque church in France. This church is free to enter, and you’ll find lots of benches that you can sit on outside.

⭐️Visit Toulouse in September when it hosts the Piano aux Jacobins . This is an almost month-long Piano festival that takes place at the Couvent de Jacobins, another historic building in Toulouse.

11. Saint Emilion (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)

Perched high on the hills of the Saint Emilion appellation is the charming medieval town of the same name. Best known for its exceptional quality wine , this UNESCO-listed town is also iconic for its beautiful limestone architecture and as a stop on historic pilgrimage routes in France . 

Just 35 minutes by train from Bordeaux , it’s the wine that brings visitors to the verdant hillsides of Saint Emilion. Vineyards line the countryside as far as the eye can see, while wine bars and chateaux are filled with wine lovers looking to sample some of the region’s finest vintages. 

While wine is the drawcard for this enchanting hamlet, its collection of historic sights, tasty restaurants, and tranquil surroundings make it worthy of an entire weekend escape. If you’re looking for somewhere beyond the wine bars of Bordeaux, then Saint Emilion is the ideal place. Here are a few things to do in Saint Emilion .

• Visit some of the nearby chateaux for wine tastings and be sure not to miss sampling some of the finest wine on offer – the Saint Emilion Grand Cru .
• Explore the Monolithic church , a reminder of the Middle Ages. Take a tour of the church and underground, before climbing the stairs to the top of the bell tower for a view across the appellation.
• Stop by Fabrique de Macarons to pick up some of the original recipe Saint Emilion macarons, a delectable fluffy sweet treat made of almonds, egg and sugar.  

⭐️For a truly magical experience in Saint Emilion, visit in Autumn during the harvest season . Starting in September, the winemakers pluck ripe, juicy grapes from the vines to prepare the season’s best vintages and bottled collections. Later in autumn, the leaves around the village will transform into shades of orange and red making for a beautiful contrast against the limestone architecture.

Guided Grand Cru Winery Tour & Tasting : visit 2 wineries during the fall harvest season to taste the finest wine in the region! Check prices and book your dates.

12. Angouleme (Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region)

Angouleme is like taking a trip back in time to an era of knights, castles, battles and ramparts. With winding cobbled streets, breathtaking views of the Charente River and beautiful old buildings , you’ll be drawn in by the colourful past of this town. The town’s nickname is the “ balcony of the southwest ” as it sits high up on a hill overlooking the beautiful Charente countryside.

This off-the-beaten-path France destination is known as the cartoon capital of Europe, there are 83 murals around the city with over 30 of them commissioned by the French government in an initiative called CitéCréation. Every year Angouleme plays host to the Comic Strip Festival in January which pulls in over 250,000 visitors. 

Whilst you’re there three things you should do in Angouleme are:

• Visit the Hôtel de Ville said to be the birthplace of Marguerite de Navarre who married Henry II of Navarre. Originally called Château d’Angoulême it was built as a fortified castle to protect the town in the 10th century . Sitting in the middle of the town its architecture is stunning and a fantastic focal point.
• The covered market, Les Halles , was built on the site of an old prison dating back to the 13th century. It was designed by the architect Victor Baltard who modelled the design on the famous Les Halles market in Paris .
• If you enjoy Romanesque architecture then the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre is a great example and has a wonderful collection of treasures that are often on display for the public.

⭐️One of the biggest events, the Circuit International des Remparts , takes place in autumn. This vintage car race is held annually on the third weekend of September and is a popular event among vintage car enthusiasts and racing fans. The race takes place on a street circuit that winds through the centre of the town, including the city’s ramparts, hence the name “Circuit International des Remparts”. 

13. Loire Valley (Centre-Val de Loire)

The Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site , is a stunning region in central France known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and historic castles. The region is located along the Loire River, the longest river in the country .

The Loire Valley is renowned for its stunning châteaux scattered throughout the countryside and along the banks of the Loire River. These magnificent buildings, which range from medieval fortresses to elegant palaces, each have its own unique story to tell.

A visit to the Loire Valley is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the history and splendour of these magnificent buildings. The Loire Valley is also famous for its exceptional wine, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Planning an itinerary through France’s Loire Valley be sure to visit the castles and the surrounding vineyards and hit up the 559 miles (900 km) of bike trails through the region. The Loire Valley is sure to make unforgettable memories. 

Visitors from around the world flock to the Loire Valley. Here are three noteworthy chateaux in the Loire Valley to add to your itinerary.

• The Château de Chenonceau : this magical Loire Valley castle spans the Cher River with elegant arches that are reflected in the water below. The interior is exquisitely decorated. Known as the “Ladies Château”, Chenonceau has always been owned by women. Beautiful female energy is still felt in the castle today. 
• Château d’Azay-le-Rideau : this magnificent Renaissance castle set in the River Indre provides magnificent reflections making it a photographer’s dream! Wander the grounds, admire the turrets soaring to the skies, and the castle’s delicate stonework. 
• The Château de Chambord : the largest and grandest of the Loire Valley châteaux, Chambord is truly spectacular. Its famous intertwined staircase leads to the lantern tower and the rooftop of chimneys. It’s a remarkable sight. (Note: Chambord was having its turrets maintained in Oct 2022 but will be finished for your 2023 fall Loire Valley visit.

⭐️With the crunch of leaves underfoot and the golden leaves framing the chateaux , autumn is magnificent in the Loire Valley. Hop on a hot air balloon to view the castles from above or hit up the Vignes Vins Randos weekend, a festival celebrating winemaking in the Loire Valley.

Loire Castles Day Trip from Paris, Paired With Wine Tasting : Visit 2 castles Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau for some wine tasting, along with free time and lunch in Blois. Check prices and book your dates.

14. St Malo (Brittany)

The stunning harbour city of St Malo, on Brittany’s Emerald Coast, has some of the best – and least busy – beaches in Northern France. This ancient city was once a welcoming refuge of ruthless pirates and was besieged by German forces during the Second World War. Today, St Malo is a thriving and exciting city to visit, with history and culture to explore at every turn.

In fact, St Malo is so popular with day-trippers from  Jersey in the British Channel Islands  that its nickname is the “13 th  parish”! 

The best things to do on your visit to St Malo include: 

• Browsing the Intra-Muros area . Take a bracing walk along the ancient city walls, for amazing views out to sea and over the rooftops of the city 
• Visit the stunning Gothic and Romanesque Cathédrale de St Malo which towers high above the iconic city skyline 
• Explore the pretty offshore islands of Le Grand Bé and Le Petit Bé at low tide 

⭐️In the autumn months, the best thing to do in St Malo is to follow the tempting aromas wafting out from the restaurants and settle down for an unrushed meal of delicious local seafood. Oysters are a local specialty , and the oyster season runs from late September until April! 

15. Mont Saint Michel (Normandy)

Normandy, located in the northwestern part of France, is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class cuisine. This region has been important in shaping European history, particularly during the Second World War . Normandy is renowned for its picturesque countryside , charming towns , and exquisite beaches .

The region offers an array of cultural and historical experiences, including exploring the D-Day beaches , visiting the Caen Memorial Museum , and touring the Bayeux Cathedral . The Normandy coastline is also home to numerous seaside resorts that offer visitors the chance to relax and soak up the sun. The culinary delights of this region are its delicious cheeses, seafood, and apple-based products like cider and calvados.

It is an ideal destination for travellers who wish to explore France beyond the usual tourist hotspots . Places like Rouen , a charming city boasting a rich history and stunning architecture, and Bayeux , famous for its medieval tapestry. But, the most famous attraction in Normandy is Mont Saint Michel . Visit here for its:

• 11th-century abbey perched dramatically above the sea
• breathtaking views and stunning Gothic-style architecture
• Island where you can explore the abbey, wander its narrow streets, and indulge in fresh seafood

⭐️Fall is a great season to visit Normandy for those who want to witness the breathtaking natural display of autumnal colours that paint the surrounding landscape. The region hosts various food festivals, such as the Festival de la Pomme in Caudebec-en-Caux , where visitors can taste local cuisine and drinks while enjoying the stunning fall scenery. 

Mont Saint Michel Guided Day Trip from Paris makes this the best way to enjoy this UNESCO Heritage Site. Check prices and book your dates

What is fall called in France?

Fall is called “l’automne” in French and this season in France is characterized by crisp air, vibrant foliage, and a harvest of seasonal fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, mushrooms, and chestnuts.

What months are autumn in France?

The autumn months in France commence on the autumn equinox in mid-September and go into October, November and mid-December. The foliage peaks in late October into early November.

Is autumn cold in France?

No, autumn in France is very pleasant with average temperatures between 16-25°C (61-77°F) although there are slight regional differences.

What month is autumn in Paris?

The month in Paris that is considered autumn is mid-October to mid-November when the foliage is at its peak and the weather is pleasant.

Is it good to visit France in October?

Yes, October is a good month to visit France. The weather is generally cool and crisp and the crowds of tourists are starting to thin out, which can make for a more relaxed travel experience.

More France Inspiration

Be sure to check out my Travel Guide to France , your one-stop-shop for all my articles about visiting Paris, and other places in France along with travel planning resources like accommodations, car rentals, train travel and more.

If you LOVE EUROPEAN TRAVEL or planning a TRIP TO EUROPE,  subscribe to my website ! I will share my love of Europe with you, along with travel planning tips and inspiration. And, you’ll get a  FREE gift for signing up – 30 Bucketlist Places in Europe!  Join, and let’s be travel friends!

As a Holidaymaker

The autumn season in France is a truly magical time of year. From the changing colours of the leaves to the delicious seasonal cuisine and exciting cultural events, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an adventure-packed trip, this beautiful country has it all.

So why not plan your next French autumn escape today? With so much to see and do, you won’t be disappointed! Bon voyage!

Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.

She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.

She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.

Top 10 Magical Places to Visit in France That Aren’t Paris

So you’re planning a vacation to France?

You’re going to have an excellent time!

Paris is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world. The City of Lights welcomes nearly 83 million visitors per year .

But what if the hustle and bustle of Paris isn’t your thing? Or you’re looking for some down time somewhere else?

In this article, we’ll go over a few places to visit in France that aren’t Paris. You’ll still enjoy the language, the food, and the culture, but you won’t have to be in Paris to do so!

Remember the opening scene in Beauty and the Beast where Belle walks through her little village? Strasbourg looks a little bit like that, loaded with rustic French charm.

Strasbourg sits on the German border, so you can see the Germanic influence in the architecture. The charming little city looks like something out of a medieval fairy tale.

With the cathedral and the market as the city’s major attractions, there is still enough shopping and other fun things to enjoy to keep any tourist busy.

And if you’re in town for a short while, it’s just a short train ride away to neighboring Germany.

One of the largest cities in France, Lyon gives you the cosmopolitan feel of Paris without the crowded hustle and bustle. It is the third most populated city in France, with about half a million inhabitants.

The city itself is home to both medieval and Renaissance-era architecture, but if you’re a major history buff, the history goes back even further. You can visit the Roman amphitheater at Fourvieve Hill. The beautiful Notre-Dame de Fourviere sits on the city’s hilltop, a jewel in the city’s crown.

With a bustling student population, you’ll never be devoid of things to do on the weekends and won’t want for an active nightlife.

Fancy a beach getaway? Cannes is the perfect place for you. Located on the French Riveria next to Italy, it’s a fantastic place to sunbathe, sail, or participate in water sports. It’s also home to a host of museums, some of whom even house antiquities dating back to prehistoric France.

The climate is mild, and not as harsh as some of the colder regions of France. This means even if you visit in the winter, you’ll still be able to enjoy the city without having to bundle up too tightly.

Northern France: Camping in Normandy

If you’re more of an outdoorsy person and less about beaches and museums, you’ll find serenity camping in France. Normandy is a fantastic location for camping, especially during the summer. Nestled next to the country’s northernmost beaches, your family will have an amazing time communing with nature.

You can rent cabins in Normandy, or you can pitch a tent yourself and strike out on your own.

The beach is just a few miles away if you can’t resist. You can pay your respects to the fallen men at Normandy during World War II. And, you can have a great time sunbathing during the summer months.

Marseille is the second biggest city in France, with a population of about 850,000. This makes it about half the size of Paris, giving you all of the amenities of a bigger city without feeling too stifled.

Located in Provence (which we recommend you visit, and hope you sample the famous French countryside), Marseille boasts stunning coastlines and an incredibly unique French accent. If you’re fluent in French or know French to a high level, you may just catch it in everyday conversations.

Marseille has it all: museums, stunning coastlines, and delicious food. It’s well-known for its culture and plays host to a resident French opera company. It’s also the birth of the French hip-hop scene.

It also has its unique style of food, with a heavy emphasis on les fruits de la mer, or seafood.

Along with Cannes, Marseille is a must-see destination for those who love both culture and can’t resist the call of the ocean.

If you’re a Van Gogh fan or into ancient artifacts, this is the city for you.

Arles was once a provincial capital during the Roman occupation, and its still steeped in history. You won’t need to go all the way to Rome to see a still-standing amphitheater: Arles has its own. You can take a tour of it or watch one of the bullfights that still happen on a daily basis.

There’s a Gallo-Roman theater still standing, and part of Arles’ ancient Roman history is one of Rome’s most famous necropolises: The Alyscamps, which still stands outside of the city. You can also find an ancient Roman aqueduct and watermill that is still standing, just outside of Arles.

Many of Van Gogh’s paintings were influenced by his time in Arles. If you’re a fan of his work, you’ll most definitely spot some of the locations of his most famous paintings.

Places to Visit in France

France is an incredibly diverse country loaded with a regional flare. Of all of the places to visit in France, you should at least spend some time outside of Paris. Steeped in history and beauty, you’ll be glad you ventured outside of one of the most visited cities in the world.

Of course, Paris has its place and you shouldn’t miss all it has to offer. Do yourself a favor and take a train somewhere special outside of France for at least one night away.

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The best time to visit France

May 7, 2024 • 5 min read

There's a perfect time to visit France, whether you're looking for big city action or bucolic charm © Alexander Spatari / Getty Images © © Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Summer on the coast or winter on the slopes? Anna Richards, one of the authors of the new Lonely Planet France guidebook , shares her tips for planning the best time to visit France for your perfect vacation.

With Alpine giants, subtropical Mediterranean gardens and a festival calendar covering everything from free music to garlic, the best time to visit France depends on where you want to go.

Provided you go to the right part of the country, France is a year-round destination. Paris , for example, never sleeps, although it naps a little in August when many Parisians flee the city for the coast. Many parts of the country, however, are highly seasonal. Head to rural areas outside of the summer season (generally May to September), and you may find nothing open at all. This is exacerbated in Corsica , where there’s only a narrow window between “completely dead” and “the arrival of the whole of Paris” in May, June and September.

There are three main climates. Paris, northern and western France have mild, wet winters and warm to mild summers. The Mediterranean has hot, largely dry summers and mild winters, while the Alps have snowy, cold winters and cooler summer temperatures.

December to April is the best time to hit the slopes

December sees many French towns turn into a nativity scene, particularly in Alsace , where the German influence runs strong and Christmas markets are an institution. The largest is in  Strasbourg , but many prefer the smaller markets in the half-timbered towns of Colmar and Riquewihr. In Lorraine and parts of Alsace, St Nicolas Day on December 6 is more important than Christmas, and celebrations in Nancy , Metz and Epinal see a threatening and grubby “Father Whipper” accompany St Nicolas to give out coal and turnips to naughty children. (Fortunately he doesn't actually whip them.)

Rising temperatures mean that winter weather is becoming increasingly unreliable in the Alps , and many of the lower-level ski resorts have opened only between mid-January and mid-March in recent years, if at all. The higher, larger resorts (such as Serre Chevalier, Les Trois Vallées and Les Portes du Soleil) consistently open from early to mid-December through to mid-April. The ski season in the Pyrenées also runs from December through to April.

Can't wait to hit the slopes? Here are the 8 best places for skiing in France

Off-piste, this also is the season for more unusual snowy activities. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are particularly popular in lower-level areas, including the pre-Alpine massif (Chartreuse, Vercors and the Bauges), Jura and the central Auvergne . Even ski stations at altitude are looking to diversify their offerings in the face of the climate crisis. Popular alternatives to skiing include ice karting in Serre Chevalier Briancon, ice diving in Tignes, and cold-water paddleboarding on the glacial waters of Lake Annecy.

January to March is carnival time, and the most famous two happen at opposite ends of the country: Nice and Dunkirk (the latter has a particularly stinky tradition, where herring are thrown into the crowd). Menton, near the Italian border, celebrates its perennial summer spoils with its annual lemon festival from mid-February to early March.

In May and June, enjoy southern sunshine with fewer crowds

Festivals really kick off in France from the start of May, thanks in part to the numerous public holidays (Labour Day on May 1, Victory Day on May 8 and Ascension Day on May 9). Many French people take advantage of “free” holiday days to bridge them with the weekend. Giant electro festival Nuits Sonores takes over former factories and abattoirs in Lyon to provide a five-day party. On June 21, the longest day of the year, a free, countrywide music festival, La Fête de la Musique, occupies the streets of France’s major cities, and many of the smaller towns too. Cannes ’ world-famous film festival draws stars of the silver screen from all over the world in May.

Keen surfers go to the southwest coast in May, when the swell is reliably clean (although June to August is better for beginners). From late May through to mid-June, the French Open tennis tournament gets into swing at Roland Garros , Paris. In late June, Provence ’s lavender fields bloom, and the landscape turns a vivid shade of purple.

Read more: 6 (big) reasons to visit France in 2024

The French take their holidays in July and August

The height of summer is the best time to tackle some of France’s hardest, highest-altitude hikes, like the GR20, Tour de Mont Blanc and Tour des Ecrins, as most of the snow has melted. Coastal France, particularly the Côte d’Azur , gets incredibly busy with both domestic and international travellers, but you can guarantee that everything will be open.

Inland cities (even Paris) generally grind to a bit of a halt in August, as business owners shut up shop and head off on their own holidays. It makes it one of the quietest times to visit the French capital (bar Disneyland , whose prices and occupancy skyrocket during the summer holidays), and is often when hotel rates are at their lowest. Note that in 2024, Paris is hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games, so it’s quite the reverse, and hotel prices have seen a huge increase.

France’s most famous sporting event, the Tour de France, is largely held in July, and the Lycra brigade race for approximately 3500km across the country. The route changes each year.

From September to November, uncork the wine

In late August through to mid-September, the grapes are harvested in France’s major wine growing regions: the Loire , Bordeaux , Languedoc-Roussillon , Champagne , Bourgogne and the Rhône Valley . Independent winemakers begin their tour of the country to showcase their wares, with the Independent Winemakers’ Showrooms  starting in mid-October. 

After the harvest, the first wine to be uncorked – to much revelry – is Beaujolais Nouveau on the third weekend of November. Expect open-door wine-tastings at châteaux all over Beaujolais and on France’s most riotous fancy dress wine marathon, which has at least 15 different tastings along the route. 

In true French fashion, celebrating gastronomy is a priority. The culinary festivals throughout the country are weird and wonderful, and many take place in harvest season. The Ardeche hosts a series of chestnut festivals (Les Castagnades), and at Lautrec’s Pink Garlic Festival (early August) it’s not unheard of for garlic to make it into the wine.

Keep planning your trip to France:

Looking for more great experiences? Here are our top picks in France   Check out these budget-friendly tips before you book See more of France on one of these classic road trips

This article was first published Apr 14, 2021 and updated May 7, 2024.

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