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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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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

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

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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.

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📍 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. 

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📍 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.

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📍 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.

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🍴 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.

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😎 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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The 15 most beautiful places in France

By Lanie Goodman

'What is the beautiful, if not the impossible,’ famously wrote French writer Gustave Flaubert. And when it comes to pinpointing what most captivates our senses, there’s nothing predictable about the unspoilt powdery snow of majestic Alpine peaks or the improbably clear emerald shallows of a deserted Corsican beach. Sometimes beauty is as simple as a shaft of pure winter light illuminating the pastel façade of a village house or the graceful harmony of a grandiose chateau. But whether it’s an unlikely glittering aluminium tower in the Provençal town of Arles or the astonishing panorama of Auvergne’s extinct volcanoes, France’s exceptionally diverse attractions add up to a joyous fête of unimaginable marvels.

PLATEAU DE VALENSOLE, PROVENCE

When it comes to lavender , timing is everything: to experience the full sniff-and-swoon effect of a glorious field of purple stalks, visit in June and July, when the flowers are abuzz with bees. Explore lesser-known spots such as Sault or Forcalquier and keep an eye out for roadside farmers’ stands, which are the real deal for honey and fragrant lavender by-products. Try a stress-busting lavender-oil-based massage at the L’Occitane spa at boutique hotel Le Couvent des Minimes , set in an elegantly restored 17th-century convent.

SAINT-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT, COTE D'AZUR

Wedged between Nice and Monaco , this secluded 2.48-square-kilometre finger of privileged land is much more than a luxurious enclave of security-gated mansions. In this quiet, wind-sheltered village where just about anything will grow, there’s a splendid rocky footpath along the shimmering sea to explore, plus a national museum in the extravagant turn-of-the-century gardens at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, ablaze with exotic blooms. No wonder the likes of Somerset Maugham, Matisse, Chagall and Cocteau set up house here; for a taste of that timeless splendour, book a sun lounger at the Olympic-sized pool of Le Club Dauphin at the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Four Seasons .

MENTON, COTE D'AZUR

Sheltered by a circle of mountains, this tranquil town flush with the Italian border still conjures a Dolce Vita vintage postcard – the gentle curve of beach, sorbet-coloured stacked houses and the baroque bell-tower church set in the cobblestoned backstreets are just the beginning. On the palm-fringed café-lined seafront, black-vested waiters dodge traffic, balancing trays of Aperol Spritz; at the end of the promenade, the curvy Ricciotti-designed Jean Cocteau Museum glitters in the sun like a white diamond. After a wander through the city’s subtropical gardens and emblematic lemon groves, book lunch at three-Michelin-star Mirazur , where chef Mauro Colagreco dishes up pure poetry on a plate.

MEGEVE, THE ALPS

Once a sleepy agricultural tannery town, this exclusive sunlit resort, launched by Baroness Noémie de Rothschild to rival Saint Moritz a century ago, still draws an affluent crowd who come for a fix of old-fashioned charm. Surrounded by majestic peaks and views of Mont Blanc, Megève’s storybook atmosphere – snow-covered pines, jingling horse-drawn carriages, an illuminated cobblestone main square – is also a joy in summer, when the hiking trails are dotted with wildflowers. Book a stay at Les Fermes de Marie , the town’s uber-stylish 70-room hamlet of Alpine farmhouses, and get slathered with edelweiss-derived beauty products at its Pure Altitude Spa.

ARLES, PROVENCE

Whether you’re wandering on the banks of the Rhone or through the medieval historic centre past the colossal Roman arena, there’s a certain village-like douceur de vivre about Arles that makes it unique. Ancient history and lots of nods to Van Gogh’s time painting here intermingle with a recent upsurge of contemporary artistic effervescence, starting with the ambitious Luma arts complex, featuring the city’s future cultural hub – the Gehry-designed steel-panelled tower shimmering against a blue sky, slated to open in 2021. Just beyond are the wetlands and pink salt flats of the Camargue , a bird-filled sanctuary where wild white horses also roam. Stay at L’Arlatan , a former 15th-century palace transformed into a jewel of eye-popping colours by Cuban-American artist Jorge Pardo.

LES ÎLES D'OR, PORQUEROLLES AND PORT-CROS, LE VAR

Less than a dozen kilometres by boat from the Riviera mainland near Hyères, these two government-protected slabs of rock – a mini-paradise of craggy cliffs, clear shallows, powdery beaches and eucalyptus-shaded paths – will quickly strip you of your ordinary routine. Among endless recreational pleasures of island life (everything from hike-or-bike paths through vineyards and underwater parks teeming with rare marine life), visit the recently opened Carmignac Foundation , a contemporary art museum on a wine estate, lost in the pines.

BORDEAUX, LA GIRONDE

With more than 350 UNESCO-listed monuments – a mix of medieval, Renaissance and 18th-century treasures – Bordeaux exults in its status as the world’s largest urban World Heritage Site, but there’s far more to the city than alluring classic architecture. Stroll through the recently revitalised Bassins à Flot district – a long stretch of docklands transformed into tree-shaded walkways lined with riverside restaurants, then visit the city’s contemporary Wine and Trade Museum, a stunning showcase for the region’s exceptional grapes. On the landmark Place de la Comédie, grab a bite at the Quatrième Mur , a buzzing old-world-style brasserie flush with the Opera House, helmed by celebrity chef Philippe Etchebest, serving tasty regional specialities from black truffles to duck and mashed potato pie.

LE CAP CORSE, CORSICA

Less than an hour’s drive away from the bustling seaport of Bastia, this wild peninsula of tiny fishing villages, Genoese towers and dunes of soft sand is a small miracle of seaside splendour that continues to avoid over-development. Head to the tip of the finger at Macinaggio and take the coastal footpath that winds around the cliffs. Sheep and cows graze in a grassy meadow, just behind the inlets of emerald and aquamarine sea; the rolling maquis-covered hillsides are a fragrant fête of wildflowers, rosemary, myrtle and thyme. Stay at the recently opened Misincu in Porticciolo, Cap Corse’s first smart eco-friendly retreat.

Lauren Burvill

Connor Sturges

Tabitha Joyce

Florrie Thomas

PARC DES VOLCANES, AUVERGNE

If you’re a hang-gliding enthusiast, floating over Auvergne’s Chaîne des Puys, Europe's largest chain of extinct volcanoes, is one way to visit this spectacular park. But you can also glimpse a partial view of these 80 symmetrical cones by driving or hiking through the neighbouring countryside. Here, in the heart of France’s rural zone of undulating valleys, verdant forests and grassy pastures dotted with grazing cows, there are few distractions, save the farmers’ markets – a cornucopia of home-cured sausages and regional cheeses. For hearty local comfort food, head to the Hôtel Bel Horizon in Vic-sur-Cère and order pounti , a prune and bacon terrine, and truffade , a potato pancake cooked in duck fat and topped with fresh Cantal.

RAMATUELLE, LE VAR

Only a few kilometres from the sandy stretch of Pampelonne beaches and verdant vineyards, this discreet fortified hilltop village – a former Saracen stronghold of tiny flower-lined alleyways and pastel-shuttered façades – is the bling-free flip side of Saint-Tropez . In high season, expect a linen-clad second-home crowd strolling around the snail-shaped circular maze of boutiques or sipping espresso at the family-run Café de l’Ormeau in the leafy square. On Thursday and Sunday mornings, the Provençal market takes over with an array of goat’s cheeses, olives, fragrant soaps and local crafts. Hop down to beachside haunt Chez Camille for the real deal in bouillabaisse.

CASSIS, PROVENCE

It’s no mystery why Dufy, Derain and even Churchill felt compelled to paint Cassis’s miniature port – a curve of pink, yellow ochre and eggshell-blue houses and wooden fishing boats. But the allure of this unique gentrification-resistant village doesn’t stop there. Aside from the pure joy of slurping down fresh sea urchins with local wine at the harbourside restaurants, you can stroll along the dazzling coastal limestone cliffs – les calanques – that lead to turquoise water, or unfurl your towel on the pebbly Plage du Bestouan. Stay at on-the-water Les Roches Blanches , a gem facing the glinting gold Cap Canaille.

CHATEAU DE CHENONCEAU, THE LOIRE VALLEY

Among France’s most emblematic beauties in Renaissance architecture, this imposing castle spanning the Cher River has an illustrious history of women, who played a leading role in its restoration. Built in 1513 by Thomas Bohier and his wife, Katherine Briçonnet, it was later embellished by both Diane de Poitier and Catherine de' Medici, whose tasteful artistry included the construction of an Italian maze of 2,000 yew trees. Highlights also include fragrant rose gardens and an impressive collection of tapestries, furniture and paintings by great classical Baroque masters from Rubens to Poussin.

SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ, BASQUE COUNTRY

There’s nothing trendy about this seawater spa town, where the simple pleasures range from detoxing with an algae wrap to body surfing in the waves, just six miles from the Spanish border . Order a steaming bowl of homemade fish soup at the harbour lined with red and white half-timbered houses, then explore the pedestrianised backstreets and stock up on local espadrilles and pastel-striped linens. The town’s must-see showstopper: Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, the stained-glass 14th-century church where Louis XIV married Marie-Thérèse of Austria in 1660. Stay at the splendid Grand Hôtel Thalasso & Spa , a pink and white Belle Epoque confection overlooking the Atlantic.

MONT SAINT-MICHEL, NORMANDY

It comes as no surprise that this granite mini-island, crowned with a gothic-style Benedictine abbey, draws an overwhelming crush of awestruck tourists, but never mind. People return in droves for a reason: this medieval UNESCO World Heritage Site remains a timeless jewel that changes constantly with the weather, season and time of day. The island is encircled by sand and salt marshes, and the high tide may rush in ‘as fast as a galloping horse’, as Victor Hugo famously wrote, so plan to stay a while. Dine at the celebrated auberge La Mère Poulard , a 19th-century institution where you’ll see writers, film stars and heads of state tucking into the restaurant’s unctuous fluffy omelettes.

GRANDS CRUS WINE TRAIL, ALSACE

This bucolic 170km stretch takes you past rolling vineyards and through more than 100 storybook villages with brightly coloured Alsatian half-timber houses and scores of ancient wine-tasting cellars where you can sniff and swirl aromatic Pinot Blanc and chat with the local vignerons . If you don’t fancy learning about Sylvaner, Riesling or Gewürztraminer grapes, the dreamy countryside will conquer the heart of even the most jaded teetotaller. Don’t miss a stop in Eguisheim, a hamlet near Colmar with cobblestone lanes and gingerbread houses, where storks nest on rooftops and flowers hang over every carved window frame. Best bet: the family-run Maison Emile Beyer excels in luscious rare grands crus.

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Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lisa Alexander spent two years living in Paris after college, enjoys returning to France as often as possible, and most recently visited France in March 2023.

Take a dream vacation in a country that's full of dreamy destinations. Fairy-tale castles, storybook country villages, fashionable seaside resorts, snowcapped mountains, and of course Paris , the elegant City of Light.

Begin with the Eiffel Tower, the modern emblem of France. Then discover famous masterpieces of art at the Louvre Museum. Spend a day pretending to be royalty at the elegant Palace of Versailles. Save time for leisurely gourmet meals. Traditional French gastronomy has been inscribed on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Each region of France boasts its own distinctive cuisine and culture. The coastal region of Brittany offers the old-world charm of quaint fishing villages and ancient seaports, while the French Alps boasts a hearty cuisine of cheese fondue and charcuterie served in cozy chalets near ski slopes.

Every corner of the country has a certain magic. Discover the wonders of travelers' favorite places and learn about the best things to do with my list of the top attractions in France.

1. Eiffel Tower

2. musée du louvre, 3. château de versailles, 4. côte d'azur, 5. mont saint-michel, 6. castles of the loire valley, 7. cathédrale notre-dame de chartres, 8. provence, 9. chamonix-mont-blanc, 10. alsace villages, 11. carcassonne, 12. brittany, 13. biarritz, 14. rocamadour, 15. prehistoric cave paintings in lascaux, best time to visit france.

The Eiffel Tower is a feat of ingenuity as much as it is a famous landmark. This structure of 8,000 metallic parts was designed by Gustave Eiffel as a temporary exhibit for the World Fair of 1889. Originally loathed by critics, the 330-meter-high tower is now a beloved and irreplaceable fixture of the Paris skyline.

Upon the first glimpse, you'll be impressed by the tower's delicate airiness despite its monumental size. Next, the panoramas at each of the three levels will take your breath away.

You can dine with a view on the 1st floor or indulge at the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne restaurant on the 2nd floor. At the exhilarating height of 276 meters, the top floor offers a sweeping outlook over the city of Paris and beyond. Vistas extend as far as 70 kilometers on a clear day.

The most prestigious museum in Paris, the Louvre ranks among the top European collections of fine arts. Many of Western Civilization's most famous works are found here, including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Wedding Feast at Cana by Veronese, and the 1st-century-BC Venus de Milo sculpture.

The collection owes its wealth to the contributions of various kings who lived in the Louvre, in centuries past when it was a royal palace. Other pieces were added as a result of France's treaties with the Vatican and the Republic of Venice, and from the spoils of Napoléon I.

The Louvre displays around 35,000 artworks, including countless masterpieces. It's impossible to see it all in a day or even in a week. Take a private guided tour or focus on a shortlist of key artworks for the most rewarding experience.

The UNESCO-listed Château de Versailles immerses you in France's glorious regal history. Step back in time to the era of the ancien régime , when Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), Louis XV, and Louis XVI ruled France. During that period, the Palace of Versailles set the standard for princely courts in Europe.

The most spectacular space in the palace is the Hall of Mirrors , where courtiers waited for an audience with His Majesty. This dazzling gallery sparkles with sunlight that enters through the windows and is reflected off hundreds of ornamental mirrors, while dozens of glittering chandeliers and gilded details make the overall impression even more marvelous.

Versailles is equally renowned for Les Jardins , formal French gardens featuring decorative pools, perfectly trimmed shrubbery, numerous statues, and magnificent fountains. The gardens were created in the 17th century by renowned landscape designer André Le Nôtre and are surrounded by 800 hectares of lush parkland.

Beyond the formal gardens is the Domaine de Trianon , which includes Le Grand Trianon palace; Le Petit Trianon château; and Le Hameau de la Reine (The Queen's Hamlet), Marie-Antoinette's fabricated pastoral village featuring quaint cottages set around a lake.

The buildings of Marie-Antoinette's hamlet were inspired by the rural architecture of the Normandy region. (Faux pastoral hamlets were a typical feature of aristocratic estates during the 18th century.) The "farmhouse" and "cottage" buildings have a weathered finish that was intentionally rendered to lend a rustic look (although the interiors were exquisitely furnished).

Marie-Antoinette's hamlet originally had a working dairy and farm, which served educational purposes for her children. This idyllic spot was designed as a place for Marie-Antoinette to escape from the formality of court life, take walks, and visit with friends. Le Hameau de la Reine provides a rare glimpse of Marie-Antoinette's private world.

The most fashionable stretch of coastline in France, the Côte d'Azur extends from Saint-Tropez to Menton near the border with Italy. Côte d'Azur translates to "Coast of Blue," a fitting name to describe the Mediterranean's mesmerizing cerulean waters.

To English speakers, this glamorous seaside destination is known as the French Riviera , words that have a ring of sun-drenched decadence.

During summer, the seaside resorts cater to beach lovers and sun-worshippers. The rich and famous are also found here in their lavish villas and luxury yachts.

The town of Nice has panoramic sea views and stellar art museums but nothing beats the views from the hilltop village of Eze . Cannes is famous for its celebrity film festival and legendary Belle Epoque hotels.

The best sandy beaches are in Antibes , which also has an atmospheric Old Town and superb museums. Saint-Tropez offers fabulous public and private beaches plus the charm of a Provençal fishing village, while Monaco seduces with its exclusive ambiance and stunning scenery.

Rising dramatically from a rocky islet off the Normandy coast, the UNESCO-listed Mont Saint-Michel is one of France's most striking landmarks. This "Pyramid of the Seas" is a mystical sight, perched 80 meters above the bay and surrounded by imposing defensive walls and bastions.

The main tourist attraction, the Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel is a marvel of medieval architecture with soaring Gothic spires. You will be awed by the serene beauty of the Abbey Church, with its harmonious Romanesque nave and ornate high-vaulted choir.

Since it was built in the 11th century, the Abbey Church has been an important Christian pilgrimage destination, known as "The Heavenly Jerusalem." Modern-day pilgrims are still inspired by Mont Saint-Michel and continue the tradition of crossing the bay by foot as it was done in the Middle Ages.

Traveling through the Loire Valley gives the impression of stepping into a children's storybook. Turreted fairy-tale castles grace a luxuriant countryside of dense woodlands and gently flowing rivers. The entire Loire Valley, an area known as the "Garden of France," is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Some of the Loire castles are medieval fortresses built on hilltops and surrounded by ramparts. However, the most famous Loire châteaux are sumptuous Renaissance palaces that were designed purely for enjoyment and entertainment, as an extension of court life outside of Paris.

The Château de Chambord , built for King Francis I, is the most magnificent château; the Château de Chenonceau has a distinctive feminine style; and the Château de Cheverny is a Neoclassical-style manor house estate that includes a Tintin exhibition, English gardens, and a forest.

It is also worth visiting the UNESCO-listed cathedrals in Chartres and Bourges as well as the city of Orléans , where Joan of Arc helped defeat the English army in 1429, and the Château Royal d'Amboise , the residence of French kings for five hundred years.

For more than eight centuries, the magnificence of Chartres Cathedral has inspired the faithful, and some say this sublime sanctuary has restored belief in the doubtful.

The UNESCO-listed Chartres Cathedral is a marvel of Gothic architecture, renowned for its 12th- and 13th-century stained-glass windows. Covering 2,500 square meters, the brilliant windows allow colorful light to filter into the vast nave, creating an ethereal effect. The intricately detailed windows reveal the incredible craftsmanship in depicting biblical stories.

The rose windows are especially noteworthy for their incredible size and details. Other highlights are the Passion window, one of the most original in its style and expression, and the Blue Virgin window which dates from the 12th century.

On the third Saturday of September, the city of Chartres presents Chartres en Lumières (Festival of Light) during European Heritage Days . The festival includes street art, music, and guided tours. During this annual event, the Chartres Cathedral dazzles crowds with its colorful multimedia show featuring illuminations and sound. The illumination show also takes place at the cathedral in July and August every evening after 10pm.

Escape into a bucolic landscape of olive groves, sun-drenched rolling hills, and deep purple lavender fields, with little villages nestled in the valleys and perched on rocky outcrops. The vibrant scenery has enchanted many famous artists, including Cézanne, Matisse, Chagall, and Picasso.

The rustic natural beauty, country charm, and laid-back atmosphere of Provence allow the region's art de vivre (art of living) to flourish. Sultry weather encourages leisurely strolls along cobblestone streets and afternoons spent on sunny terraces of outdoor cafés.

Among the many attractions of Provence is its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, which is based on olive oil, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. You can choose from a wide range of culinary establishments, from family-run bistros to Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurants.

The quintessential Provençal town, Aix-en-Provence is famous for its colorful open-air markets and the hundreds of fountains that are typical of southern France. Fascinating ancient ruins and traditional festivals distinguish Arles , while the medieval city of Avignon is home to the UNESCO-listed Palais de Papes.

Even tiny villages, like Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Saint-Rémy, and Gordes, have amazing historic sites, fantastic museums, and an irresistibly quaint ambiance.

The awesome spectacle of Mont Blanc in the French Alps is an unforgettable sight. The highest mountain peak in Europe, Mont Blanc soars to 4,810 meters. Thanks to its elevation, Mont Blanc ("White Mountain") is always blanketed in snow.

Beneath its majestic peak is the traditional alpine village of Chamonix , nestled in a high-mountain valley. This delightful little town is filled with historic churches, traditional alpine restaurants, and charming auberges.

Chamonix is a great base for skiing, hiking, rock climbing, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing. The village is one of the best places to visit in France for inspiring natural scenery and alpine accommodations. Upscale mountain lodges and cozy chalets welcome guests in style.

Catering to diners with good appetites, local restaurants serve hearty meals typical of the Savoie region, as well as international cuisine. To sample the Savoyard specialties, try the charcuterie, fondue , and raclette (melted Gruyère, Comté, or Emmentaler cheese served with boiled potatoes).

Some of the prettiest villages in France are tucked away in the green, rolling hills of Alsace, where the Vosges Mountains border the Rhine River of Germany. These picturesque Alsatian villages feature pastel-painted, half-timbered houses clustered around small parish churches. Cheerful flowering balconies and pedestrian cobblestone streets add to the appeal.

Villages Fleuris and Plus Beaux Villages de France

Many of the villages have won France's Villages Fleuris award for their lovely floral decorations, such as Obernai , with its characteristic burghers' houses; the charming little village of Ribeauvillé , where many homes are adorned with potted flowers; the Pays d'Art et d'Histoire (Region of Art and History) of Guebwiller ; and the captivating medieval village of Bergheim .

Some of the flower-bedecked Alsatian villages are so pretty that they have been designated as both Villages Fleuris and Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages of France), including the storybook hamlet of Riquewihr and the enchanting village of Eguisheim , nestled in a valley. Another of the Plus Beaux Villages is Mittelbergheim , known for its gastronomy and gorgeous pastoral landscape, at the foot of the verdant Mont Saint-Odile.

If you're planning an Alsace vacation itinerary, Colmar is a good base to explore the Alsatian villages and surrounding nature trails.

With its turreted towers and crenelated ramparts, Carcassonne seems straight out of a fairy-tale scene. This well-preserved (and renovated) fortified city offers a total immersion into the world of the Middle Ages.

Known as La Cité , the UNESCO-listed walled medieval town of Carcassonne is a warren of narrow, winding cobblestone lanes and quaint old houses. Nearly every street, square, and building has retained its historic character. Within la Cité, the 12th-century Château Comtal reveals the Cathar heritage of the Languedoc region .

Must-see tourist attractions are the double-circuited ramparts with 52 towers and the Basilique Saint-Nazaire et Saint-Celse , which features splendid 13th-century stained-glass windows.

Carcassonne draws many visitors on July 14th for its fireworks show, to celebrate Bastille Day , a national holiday (Fête Nationale). Despite being a small town, Carcassonne presents one of the most dazzling July 14th fireworks displays in France.

The Brittany region in northeastern France brims with natural beauty and historic charm. A rugged coastline, quaint fishing villages, and weathered seaports characterize this region. The distinctive local culture is steeped in ancient traditions and famous for its costumed religious festivals.

A mystical land of myths and legends, Brittany has a Celtic influence and a dialect related to Gaelic. The local cuisine is based on seafood and is renowned for its savory buckwheat crêpes and sweet dessert crêpes.

The quintessential Breton port is Saint-Malo surrounded by 17th-century fortifications. Quimper is a picture-postcard town with handsome half-timbered houses, pleasant squares, and an impressive Gothic cathedral. Nantes has a spectacular château and is where the Edict of Nantes was signed in 1598 granting freedom of religious belief to Protestants.

Other highlights of Brittany are the pristine sandy beaches, tiny remote islands, and ancient castles. Belle-Île-en-Mer , the largest of the Breton islands, appeals to vacationers in search of a peaceful seaside setting. Ferry boats run from Quiberon, Port Navalo, and Vannes to Belle-Île-en-Mer.

This fashionable seaside resort has an elegant and aristocratic air; it was a favorite destination of Empress Eugénie , wife of Napoleon III. Empress Eugénie loved the beautiful setting on the Bay of Biscay in France's Basque country.

The imperial couple's grandiose Second Empire palace has been converted into the Hôtel du Palais Biarritz , a luxury hotel featuring a Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant and sensational views of the Grande Plage beach. This large sandy beach, with its broad seafront promenade, has attracted high-society vacation goers since the Belle Epoque.

Other must-see sights of Biarritz are related to the ocean: the Biarritz Aquarium ; the Lighthouse ; and the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin of the Rock) which stands along the coastline on an immense rock beaten by the Atlantic's wild waves.

For a taste of the town's regal past, visit the chic Miremont tearoom that has served exceptional pastries since 1872.

Rocamadour resides between heaven and earth, suspended on a sheer limestone cliff as if providing a medium for spiritual wonders.

In the 11th century, this pilgrimage destination was the third most important in Christendom after Jerusalem and Rome. Rocamadour was on the medieval Chemin de Saint-Jacques (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

The village has seven ancient sanctuaries, but pilgrims flock to the Chapelle Notre-Dame (Chapelle Miraculeuse), which possesses the venerated Black Virgin (Notre-Dame de Rocamadour). This precious Virgin Mary figure was carved from walnut wood that naturally darkened over the centuries and is associated with miracles.

Another must-see sight is the UNESCO-listed Basilique Saint-Sauveur , the largest church of Rocamadour built in Romanesque and Gothic styles between the 11th and 13th centuries. For a challenging spiritual experience, pilgrims can ascend the steep flight of steps, with 12 Stations of the Cross, leading up to the château at the highest point in the village.

About 145 kilometers from Limoges in the Limousin , Rocamadour is surrounded by the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy , a natural park in the Dordogne region.

Discover the fascinating world of prehistoric art in Lascaux, the finest example of Paleolithic art in the world. This UNESCO-listed site is in the Vézère Valley of the Dordogne region . Discovered in 1940, the Lascaux Cave contains exquisite prehistoric paintings, but in 1963 was closed to the public to prevent damage.

A replica of the cave was created at the nearby Lascaux II site in Montignac, 200 meters from the actual cave. Opened in 1983, Lascaux II is a faithful reproduction of the Lascaux Cave and its paintings. The Paleolithic art has been carefully recreated, including every detail of the animal paintings in authentic ochre hues.

Opened in 2016, the sleek ultra-modern International Centre for Cave Art (also in Montignac) presents a complete replica ( Lascaux IV ) of the original Lascaux Cave along with museum exhibits that provide context for the prehistoric artworks. Virtual reality exhibits and a 3-D film help bring the prehistoric period to life.

Highlights of the Lascaux prehistoric cave paintings are the Salle des Taureaux (Hall of the Bulls) with panels featuring unicorns and bears and the Diverticule Axial , a narrow 30-meter-long hall with impressive drawings of bulls, cows, and horses. The art reproductions of the replica caves are so accurate that visitors would not be able to tell the difference from the original.

France appeals to travelers through the four seasons. For most tourists, the best seasons to visit are in the late spring, summer, and early autumn . Summertime is the most popular season because of school vacations and warm weather. Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant, mild weather and less crowds.

For those who appreciate beautiful gardens, spring and summer are the best seasons to visit France and especially Paris. One of the top day trips from Paris, Monet's Garden in Giverny is spectacular when tulips bloom in April, in May when wisterias bud, and in June when roses blossom. By July, the famous water lilies of Monet's paintings appear in the garden's pond.

In terms of warm weather and long days, summer is the best season to visit. The months of July and August are great for beach vacations on the French Riviera or the elegant resort of Biarritz on the Atlantic Coast. Outdoor sports enthusiasts enjoy the countryside of Provence, the Auvergne region , and the French Alps during summertime, when the sunshine and comfortable temperatures make hiking and boating enjoyable.

For budget travelers, the winter is a good time to visit France because hotel prices are reduced. However, from December through February the weather can be very chilly (low 40s to mid 40s Fahrenheit in Paris and northern France), as well as rainy.

Many travelers enjoy visiting during the holiday season (end of November through January 1st) since Paris and other cities feature lovely Christmas decorations. In addition, the holidays are the time for Christmas music concerts and traditional Marchés de Noël (Christmas markets) especially in the small towns of Provence, Annecy in the French Alps, and the quaint villages of the Alsace region .

More on France

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.

Looking for a Full List of Paris Restaurants and Cafes?

Join my private travel community, The Lounge, to get access to my saved Google Maps for Paris with my curated spots. Join here!

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

Related Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Dordogne

The 7 Most Beautiful Villages in Alsace, France to Visit

The 18 Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower Views

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25 Incredible Places to Visit in France | 2024 (with Photos)

Staša Petrović - Travel Writer

Last Updated: January 22, 2024

Hi there! I'm Stasha, a travel enthusiast and avid explorer of France. Through my personal experiences and adventures, I have curated a list of 25 incredible places to visit in France, complete with captivating photos to inspire your wanderlust. Happy travels!

France is a treasure trove of breathtaking destinations, steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty.

From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera, and from the medieval villages of Provence to the charming vineyards of Bordeaux, there are countless places to explore in this enchanting country.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or just seeking to soak in the French joie de vivre, France has something for everyone.

Join us on a journey to discover the 25 best places to visit in France for a truly memorable trip that will captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

• Eiffel Tower

Top Choice Hotel

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Le Comptoir Général

Best Time to Visit

Spring or fall, avoid summer crowds and heat.

Average Temperature

The average temperature in Paris, France is mild.

Transportation Options

Metro, RER, bus, tram, taxi, bike, walking, rideshare.

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Paris, France has an undeniable charm that captivates visitors from around the world. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral, taking in the breathtaking views from their heights.

Indulge your taste buds with a stroll through the charming streets of Le Marais, where you can discover quaint cafes, local bakeries, and trendy boutiques. Savor delicious French cuisine at a cozy bistro, and experience the vibrant nightlife in the lively neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Travel documents
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing

What Not to Miss

• Louvre Museum
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Seine River

What to Avoid

• Pickpocketing and theft
• Tourist scams
• Overpriced tourist traps

Table of Contents

1. Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is an iconic island commune in Normandy, France, renowned for its stunning medieval abbey perched atop a rocky island, surrounded by vast tidal flats.

It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a place of pilgrimage , attracting visitors with its unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

As the tides change, Mont Saint-Michel transforms from an island to a peninsula, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring sight.

With its rich cultural significance and breathtaking vistas, Mont Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a truly unforgettable experience in France.

2. The French Riviera

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is one of the best places to visit in France, as it boasts a glamorous stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea in Southern France, with popular destinations such as Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez.

Renowned for its stunning beaches, glamorous resorts, and vibrant nightlife, the French Riviera has long been a playground for the rich and famous.

With its azure waters, picturesque villages, and luxurious yachts dotting the harbors, the French Riviera exudes elegance and sophistication.

From the chic city of Nice to the glamorous principality of Monaco, the French Riviera is a great tourist destination that promises a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.

3. The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, located in central France, is a picturesque region with an unspoiled landscape and one of the best places to visit in France.

Known as the "Garden of France," Val de Loire Refonte is a UNESCO World Heritage site, dotted with over 300 castles , including the iconic Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.

The region also boasts charming towns, lush gardens, and scenic cycling routes along the Loire River.

Renowned for its wine production and rich history, the Loire Valley is a captivating destination that promises an enchanting experience for everyone that comes.

4. Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral, located in the heart of Paris, France, is a world-famous Gothic masterpiece and an iconic symbol of French history and culture.

Built in the 12th century, the Notre Dame cathedral's soaring towers, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate sculptures are a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of its time.

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is one of eight religious buildings that visitors can explore after ascending the 216 steps of Le Grand Escalier to the square at the top.

With its rich religious and architectural significance, Notre Dame Cathedral has been a source of inspiration for art, literature, and countless visitors from around the world.

Despite the devastating fire in 2019, Notre Dame Cathedral continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Parisians and travelers alike.

5. Place de la Bourse

Place de la Bourse, located in Bordeaux, France, is a historic square that is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.

Built in the 18th century, the square is known for its iconic architectural masterpiece , the Palais de la Bourse, with its grand neoclassical façade and stunning reflecting pool known as the Miroir d'Eau.

The Place de la Bourse is a vibrant hub, surrounded by elegant buildings, charming cafes, and bustling markets, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Bordeaux.

6. The Eiffel Tower - Paris' Beloved Landmark

The Eiffel Tower, located in Paris, France, is one of the most famous landmarks in the world , and an enduring symbol of romance, elegance, and French culture.

Standing tall at 330 meters, this iconic iron lattice tower was designed by Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1889 for the World's Fair.

Today, it welcomes millions of visitors annually, who come to marvel at its majestic structure and panoramic views of the city.

Whether it's admiring the tower's intricate details, ascending to the top for breathtaking vistas, or enjoying a leisurely picnic in its surrounding gardens, the Eiffel Tower continues to captivate the hearts and minds of travelers from around the globe.

7. Château de Chenonceau

The Château de Chenonceau is one of the special places to visit in France, as it is a beloved masterpiece of architectural ingenuity, nestled gracefully over the tranquil waters of the Cher River in France's Loire Valley.

Renowned for its distinctive blend of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, this enchanting castle is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design.

The Château de Chenonceau is not only a marvel of architectural ingenuity but also has a fascinating history that adds to its allure.

Designed and constructed in the 16th century, it has been home to several notable women who left their mark on the castle and its surroundings.

It was first owned by Catherine Briçonnet, who oversaw the construction of the bridge gallery, and later by Diane de Poitiers, who created the beautiful gardens and added the bridge chapel.

Its elegant arched gallery, known as the " Gallery of the Ladies ," spans the river, creating a breathtaking sight that seems to hover above the water.

With its stunning gardens and romantic ambiance, the Château de Chenonceau is a cherished gem that continues to captivate visitors with its unique charm and allure.

8. Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez, located on the French Riviera, is a world-famous destination known for its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant nightlife, and glamorous atmosphere.

This former sleepy fishing village turned jet-setter's playground has been a magnet for celebrities, artists, and fashionistas for decades. The town rose to fame after it was featured in the film "Et Dieu Créa la Femme" (And God Created Woman), starring Brigitte Bardot.

With its picturesque harbor, charming old town, and luxury yachts dotting the marina, beautiful beaches such as the Plage de la Bouillabaisse, Saint Tropez exudes an air of chic sophistication.

From its trendy beach clubs and designer boutiques to its historic sites and cultural events, Saint Tropez offers a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of the good life.

9. The Beaux Villages de France

The Beaux Villages de France, or the Most Beautiful Villages of France, are one of the best places to visit in France, as they are a collection of picturesque and quaint villages that showcase the country's rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty.

Nestled in idyllic countryside settings, these villages are known for their well-preserved architecture, historic landmarks, and stunning landscapes.

From medieval fortifications to charming cobblestone streets, each Beaux Village exudes its own unique charm and character.

These hidden gems offer an opportunity to step back in time and experience the beauty and tranquility of rural France, making them a treasure trove for travelers seeking an authentic and enchanting experience.

10. The French Alps

The French Alps, located in southeastern France, is a majestic mountain range known for its towering peaks, pristine snow-capped slopes, and breathtaking landscapes.

A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the French Alps offer cross-country skiing, hiking, mountaineering, and other adventure sports.

The French Alps are also renowned for their charming alpine villages, where visitors can experience traditional mountain culture and hospitality.

These villages are characterized by their wooden chalets, narrow streets, and local shops and restaurants serving regional delicacies such as cheese fondue and tartiflette.

11. Bordeaux

The Bordeaux region, located in southwestern France, is a renowned wine-producing region known for its prestigious vineyards, historic chateaux, and world-class wines.

In addition to its wines, Bordeaux is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with a wealth of historical monuments, museums, and art galleries. There are numerous activities to enjoy in Bordeaux .

The city of Bordeaux is particularly notable for its 18th-century architecture, which has earned it the nickname "The Sleeping Beauty."

With its fertile vineyards, historical monuments, picturesque landscapes, and rich winemaking tradition, Bordeaux is a paradise for wine lovers, offering tastings, tours, and the chance to indulge in the finest vintages in the world.

12. Saint-Paul de Vence

Saint-Paul de Vence is a charming medieval village located in the Provence region of France. Perched atop a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, the village is known for its narrow streets, stone houses, and picturesque squares.

Saint-Paul de Vence has a rich artistic heritage, having been home to many famous painters and writers over the years. Visitors can explore numerous art galleries and museums , including the Fondation Maeght, which showcases works by modern and contemporary artists.

The village also offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in a scenic setting.

13. Mont Blanc & its Majestic Summit

Mont Blanc is one of the most thrilling places to visit in France, as it is the highest mountain in the French Alps and Western Europe, standing at an impressive 4,810 meters (15,781 feet) above sea level.

Its majestic summit attracts mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world , seeking to climb its towering peak.

Mont Blanc is renowned for its stunning beauty and challenging terrain, with glaciers, snowfields, and rocky ridges offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience for climbers.

The summit also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the French and Italian Alps and the Mont Blanc massif.

For those seeking a less challenging experience, there are also numerous hiking trails and cable cars that provide access to the mountain's lower slopes and offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

14. La Petite France in Strasbourg

La Petite France is a picturesque neighborhood located in the heart of Strasbourg, in northeastern France.

Known for its timber-framed houses, narrow streets, and charming canals , the district is a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the city's culture.

La Petite France is home to several historic buildings, including the Maison des Tanneurs, a former tannery that now houses a restaurant, and the Maison Kammerzell, a beautifully preserved medieval house that dates back to the 15th century.

Visitors can stroll along the canals, admire the colorful buildings, and sample the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the streets.

The Alsace region in northeastern France is one of the most picturesque places to visit in France , renowned for its charming medieval towns, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

With its distinctive half-timbered houses, flower-lined streets, and world-class vineyards, the Alsace region offers a unique blend of French and German influences.

The region's cuisine, featuring traditional dishes such as sauerkraut and flammkuchen, is a culinary delight.

The Alsace region is also home to vibrant festivals, enchanting Christmas markets, and warm hospitality that make it a beloved destination for travelers seeking a taste of Alsatian charm.

16. The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is one of the most famous museums in Paris and in the world.

It is renowned for its extensive collection of art and artifacts, spanning over 9,000 years of human history.

The Louvre is home to some of the world's most famous works of art, including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Winged Victory of Samothrace , and the Venus de Milo .

Its collections also include ancient Egyptian artifacts, Greek and Roman sculptures, and Islamic art.

With over 38,000 works of art on display, the Louvre is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts from around the world.

17. The Legacy of Roman Ruins (Provence)

Roman ruins are one of the most educational places to visit in France, as it provides a thrilling experience that takes visitors back in time to ancient civilizations.

In France, the southern region of Provence is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins, including the Amphitheatre of Nimes, the Pont du Gard, and the Arena of Arles.

These sites offer visitors the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, including amphitheaters, temples, and public baths, and learn about the fascinating history of the Roman Empire.

Many sites also offer guided tours, multimedia exhibits, and interactive displays, making it easy for visitors to learn about the lives of the people who once lived in these ancient cities.

18. Cirque de Gavarnie in the Pyrenees

The Cirque de Gavarnie is a natural amphitheater located in the heart of the Pyrenees Mountains, in southwestern France.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including towering cliffs, sparkling waterfalls, and lush greenery.

The Cirque is also home to the Gavarnie waterfall , one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, with a total height of 422 meters.

The site offers visitors the opportunity to hike, climb, and explore the natural beauty of the Pyrenees , with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape at every turn.

Visiting the Cirque de Gavarnie is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery.

19. The Champagne Region

The Champagne region in northeastern France is one of the best places to visit in France, famous for its sparkling wine , which has become synonymous with celebration and luxury around the world.

The region's unique climate and soil make it an ideal location for growing the grapes used in champagne production .

Visitors to this region can take tours of the vineyards and cellars, learn about the history and traditions of champagne-making, and taste the world's finest bubbly.

The region is also home to several charming towns and villages, such as Reims and Épernay, where visitors can sample local cuisine, explore historic landmarks, and experience the French way of life.

20. Lille & its Historic City Center

Lille's historic city, located in Northern France, is a treasure trove of architectural splendor, boasting beautiful buildings from various eras, picturesque squares, and charming cobblestone streets.

Its rich cultural heritage is evident in its churches, cathedrals, and museums, showcasing the city's history and artistic legacy.

Lille's historic city is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, art, and architecture.

21. The French Basque Country

The French Basque Country, located in the southwestern part of France, is a cultural region with a distinct identity, offering some of the most unique places to visit in France.

Known for its vibrant Basque culture , picturesque landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience.

The region is home to charming towns and villages, such as Bayonne and Biarritz, with colorful architecture and lively markets.

Visitors can also enjoy traditional Basque cuisine , including pintxos and Basque cakes, and explore the region's stunning beaches, rolling hills, and rugged coastline.

This is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing a unique blend of French and Basque culture.

22. Strasbourg

Strasbourg, a capital city of the Alsace region, is a picturesque city known for its diverse culture, and important European institutions.

Famous for its half-timbered houses, charming canals, and Gothic cathedral, Strasbourg is also home to the European Parliament , making it a significant hub of European politics and diplomacy.

Strasbourg is a unique blend of both France and Germany, a UNESCO-listed old town, and world-renowned Christmas markets making it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of European unity.

23. Lyon (& Vieux Lyon)

Vieux Lyon, or Old Lyon, is a historic district located in the heart of Lyon, the third largest city in France.

With its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture , narrow cobblestone streets, and hidden passageways, Vieux Lyon is a historic center of cultural heritage.

Home to stunning churches, museums, and vibrant markets, this historic center offers a captivating glimpse into Lyon's culture and architectural splendor.

24. The Beaches of Normandy

The D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy, located along the northern coast of France, is one of the most important historic places to visit in France and serves as a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II.

The beaches, including Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, were the sites of the historic D-Day landings , which marked a turning point in the war.

Today, visitors can explore the beaches and learn about the history of the landings through museums, memorials, and guided tours.

The region is also home to charming towns and villages, such as Bayeux, with rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.

Visiting the D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy is a powerful and educational experience that honors the brave soldiers who fought for freedom and democracy.

25. The Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, located at the end of the Champs-Elysées in Paris, is one of the must-see places to visit in France. This iconic monument pays tribute to France's military victories and fallen soldiers.

Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, the monument stands over 50 meters tall and is adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs.

Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for stunning views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

The monument is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which honors the soldiers who died in World War I. The Arc de Triomphe is a must-visit attraction that offers a glimpse into France's culture.

FAQs About Places to Visit in France

In this section, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the best places to visit in France.

What are some iconic places in France?

Iconic places to visit in France include Blois , a town that the French kings liked because of its rolling green hills; Oppede le Vieux village with its Middle Ages ambiance; Rocamadour , an important pilgrimage site; Dune du Pilat , the tallest sand dune in Europe; and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle , a gorgeous little village.

What should we visit in France?

While in France, you can take a day trip to the Palais des Papes , the largest Gothic palace globally in Avignon, visit a great beach like the iconic Promenade des Anglais, and go on Alsace's scenic wine trail.

What is the most popular place for tourists in France?

The most popular tourist destination in France is undoubtedly the Eiffel Tower, which is an iconic symbol of France and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

What are some major attractions in France?

Some of the most popular attractions in France are the Palace of Versailles near Paris , the Cannes Film Festival, and the French Riviera .

Summing up: Incredible Places to Visit in France

In conclusion, France is one of the best places to visit and it offers a diverse range of experiences to its visitors. Whether you enjoy skiing, exploring lush forests, or wandering through charming villages, France has something to offer everyone.

Beyond the mountains and the cities that we mentioned, France boasts many other French cities and towns that are worth exploring.

From the bustling French capital city of Paris, with its iconic landmarks and museums, to the medieval city of Carcassonne, to the seaside town of Nice, each destination offers its unique charm and attractions.

Overall, France is a country that can be enjoyed in many different ways, with a vast range of attractions to suit all interests.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, visiting France will leave a lasting impression on you.

Mont Saint-Michel

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

The Eiffel Tower - Paris' Beloved Landmark

The Louvre Museum

The Beaches of Normandy

The Arc de Triomphe

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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!

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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! 

Becky Moore - Owner, writer and photographer My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland. Hotel Reviewing Experience - published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

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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17 Best Places to Visit in France

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The allure of France lingers in the consciousness of all travelers. Across the six corners of the l’Hexagone are a little something for everyone. It starts in Paris, a place that was so loved it became cool not to love it.

As you expound further, say hello to the bucolic countryside of Alsace, the castles of the Loire Valley, the luxuriation of the French Riviera, and finally, take a deep breath. In the French Alps.

It can be difficult to do it all in one go, but each time you visit, you’ll discover something different. Whether that be a new era of history, such as ancient Greek ports, Roman Catholicism, the Middle Ages or the Renaissance.

Map of France

Maybe it’s treating yourself to Cote d’Azur and Saint Tropez. Or maybe you head into the mountains for an entirely different adventure. There are always new places to visit in France and exciting attractions to discover. They say you can’t have it all. But in France, maybe you can.

17. Avignon

Once the center of Roman Catholicism, this short-lived stint evolved into the culturally rich town we see today. The Pope may be long gone, but the array of canonical architecture remains.

At the heart of this is the Palais des Papes, which is part striking fortress and part palace. It’s the biggest Gothic palace in history and was meant to showcase the might of the Roman Catholic Church in the years after its departure from Rome. Three-meter thick walls enveloped the palace and protected her vast halls, cavernous antechambers and eloquent chapels.

Beyond the palace, Avignon boasts mansions from the Renaissance and features a renowned annual theater festival. With the Rhone River meandering through, you’ll find a vibrant waterfront and wine from nearby vineyards.

16. Marseille

One of Europe’s oldest cities and France’s second largest city, Marseille is a major Mediterranean seaport located off the southeast coast of France. Once a prominent Greek harbor, there remains a classic edginess to the city. But it’s evolved into a much richer, interesting culture.

Today, creativity runs through the city and can be seen in its live music, arts and cutting-edge museums. The same can be said of its progressive food scene.

At the core of Marseille is its old port, Vieux Port. Dominated by two historic forts, this bustling harbor is lined with waterfront cafes, shops and bars. At the end of the harbor is the Quai des Belges where visitors can view luxury yachts, ferry boats and fishermen auctioning off their catch at the daily fish market.

One of Marseille’s best natural attractions, the Calanques are a series of small inlets with astonishing blue water and majestic limestone cliffs. Other must-sees include Fort St-Jean, Le Panier, MuCEM and the Basilique Notre Dame de Garde.

With some necessary exploration finished, head offshore to Chateau d’If, which was Immortalized by The Count of Monte Cristo. Finish up with a brilliant sunset while noshing on bouillabaisse.

15. Versailles

Second to the Eiffel Tower, Versailles is the most popular landmark in France. Some 15 million arrive every year to experience this decadent symbol of power and history. Here’s the thing about traveling, sometimes you’re gonna have to deal with crowds.

And deal you will, as Versailles is well worth the time and effort. The palace dates back to the late 17th century, beginning life as a luxurious lodge for the monarchs in power. However, it was Louis XIV who moved the court and influence away from Paris to Versailles as tensions blossomed across France.

Today, with your pre-purchased ticket (avoid those lines, folks!) you can explore the gorgeous manicured grounds, the Trianon Estate and Queen’s Hamlet. However, it’s the 2,300 room Main Palace, home to the Hall of Mirrors and the King’s Apartments that makes a visit well worth it.

14. Gorges du Verdon

Calling the Gorges du Verdon “the Grand Canyon of France” seems like a stretch. And it is. But the canyon still belongs on your France itinerary. Gorges du Verdon descends 700 meters at a rapid rate towards the Verdon River with its rushing blue water carving it ever deeper.

It’s the largest canyon on the continent and its 25 kilometers of length creates an abundance of thrilling watersports and adventures. You can cruise the length of the canyon, marveling at the towering limestone cliffs. If this sounds too relaxing, then just switch the boat for a raft and ride the whitewater rapids.

For some of the best views, however, you’ll have to get about on foot…or even horseback. There are around 100 kilometers of trails that course along either side of the canyon, with endless viewpoints throughout.

Located in east-central France, Lyon is the capital of the Rhone department. It is the place to stop and splurge on the good things in life. Once you’ve blown your budget at the bouchons Lyonnais (traditional bistros), you’ll still find much to do.

Top of this list should be a jaunt along the paths that snake through the Parc des Hauters. These lead you to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere. Both the city and the Alps combine for an epic view.

Lyon also has several interesting neighborhoods to explore. For example, Presqu’île is the heart of the city with its restaurants, bars and clubs while Croix-Rousse is known for its hundreds of hidden passageways known as traboules. Eventually you’ll end up in Vieux Lyon, the historic center featuring narrow, cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture and landmarks like St. Jean Cathedral with its astronomical clock.

In the summer months, get in quick for a concert at the Theatre Romain. The original foundation goes back to 15BC when Lyon was all but a small Roman settlement. Continue the arts theme by discovering some of Lyon’s 100+ outdoor murals.

While Lyon frequently illuminates its major monuments year-round, the Festival of Lights is an annual event with various celebrations of candle lightings and professional sound-and-light shows.

12. Normandy

Along the northwest coast of France, Normandy is synonymous with modern history. The coast’s lengthy beaches have become famous thanks to D-Day. And while the rugged coast harbors rich WWII history, it’s just the beginning.

Beyond the vast shores is a region steeped in literary history. There’s the bucolic countryside that features not one but four protected cheese origins. But better than them all is Mont St-Michel, which stands along like a mesmerizing iceberg off the coast.

Lovers of cheese can’t pass up a cheese tour of Normandy. This will take you to the towns of Camembert, Livarot, Pont l’Eveque and Neufchatel. Beyond their tasty creations lie charming towns that evoke welcome authenticity.

Speaking of memorable towns, be sure to stop by Barneville-Carteret from DIY shucked oysters or Honfleur. The latter is laden by half-timbered homes and marks the end of the Seine.

11. Corsica

In the French Mediterranean, the island of Corsica embraces its surrounds. Enveloped with sparkling emerald water, Corsica has as much Italian influence as it does French.

Known as the Island of Beauty, Corsica takes the best of both and boasts coastal towns backed by serene forests and granite mountain tops. It’s no small, dainty island either. There are over 1,000 kilometers of coastline to explore and plenty of chances to get away from it all.

Along these coastlines are turquoise waters that harbor beautiful underwater worlds. Chances to snorkel and even scuba dive are ever present. Days spent swimming are rewarded by captivating sunsets in Bastia where you’ll also find a great collection of restaurants and taverns.

The next day you can mix it up by trekking into the forests and mountains that are affixed with snow in the colder months.

10. Bordeaux

Some great wine regions have made it into our list. But Bordeaux can lay claim to being the best of them. As the country’s wine capital, there is an air of elegance to Bordeaux. This is elevated by the cocktail of 18th century architecture.

Cutting through the center of town are the streets of Place du Parlemant and Saint-Pierre. High culture mingles on these streets that are lined by chic cafes and outdoor seating to bathe under the sun.

Before you venture and experience some of the area’s best vineyards, explore the La Cite du Vin. This museum showcased the history of wine from around Bordeaux and is set in a captivating building. To get there, take a leisurely stroll down the River Garonne.

Now you’re all set to try the local tipple. Some of Bordeaux’s best wineries surround elegant chateaus that make for the perfect wine tasting spot.

9. Lake Annecy

Chamonix may garner the most attention, but we believe the best of the French Alps lies surrounding the beautiful Lake Annecy. One of the largest lakes in Europe, it can also lay claim to being the cleanest thanks to its pristine high alpine surrounds.

In the summer months, Lake Annecy is a dreamy destination. The sapphire-hued jewel sits enveloped in lush green mountains with the odd dash of granite. As the sun bounces along the lake the azure waters become even more obvious and call you in for a dip.

Such is its size, you can do more than swim. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular and you’ll see several boats making use of the conditions to sail around.

The views of the water are matched by the surrounding mountains including the snowy peaks of Tournette Mountain. Any visit here should also take in the old town of Annecy , which is a picture-perfect alpine village.

8. Carcassonne

The walled city of Carcassonne sits atop a hill on the banks of the Aude River. The original fortifications date back to Roman occupation in 100 BC, although much has changed since then.

With surrounding threats long gone, you can make your way into the medieval city. The often steep walk requires a break for breath but it’s immediately rewarded once you step beyond the turreted towers that adorn the walls and over the drawbridge.

On the other side of Narbonne Gate, you’ll find the old city is a scene straight from a Disney fairy tale. Cobbled streets guide you along the fortified walls where you’re half expecting a soldier from the Middle Ages to stop you in your tracks.

Along your journey back in time, you’ll cross paths with the Chateau Comtal from the 12th century, adorned with cathedrals and even access a subterranean dungeon.

7. Loire Valley

Teaming with castles, medieval villages and endless vineyards, the Loire Valley is the personification of art de vivre. Rolling effortlessly through the valley is the Loire River, the last remaining wild river in Europe.

It all combines into an area that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape alive with the life source of the river creates head-turning scenery. Something that’s only matched by the local culture and one so steeped in history.

At the center of this is the Chateau de Chenonceau. The 16th century masterpiece features the Grande Galerie, which spans 60 meters across the Cher River. In the winter and autumn, the sun sets in the perfect spot, reflecting the dwindling light across the water. Other famous chateaux include Chambord, Rivau and Chinon.

But it’s the Loire River that connects it all. You can cycle along it for over 500km going from town to town, or you can simply do a bite-sized chunk. Either way, with destinations like Angers, Amboise and Nantes, there’s no losing.

Auburn sandstone cottages with terracotta rooftops adorn the hilltop towns around Luberon. They rise and fall along the rolling hills and are the only interruptions to fields of pine and symmetric vineyards.

Luberon is a collection of hilltop villages that run through the Provence from east to west. Cavaillon and Manosque are the region’s bookends and along with harboring the aforementioned beauty, it’s the slow pace of life that you’ll love just as much.

The agrarian region remains tied in with its traditional roots. There’s no rush here, with plenty of time to enjoy the region’s fine wine and even tastier food. It’s no wonder the markets held weekly through Luberon have you salivating upon entrance.

Beyond the townships, you can get to know the countryside on foot by exploring the Cedar Forest near Bonnieux. The overarching trees provide relief from the summer heat and lead to captivating views of the hilltop towns.

Jumping between the banners of France and Germany, the Alsace Region is distinct from the rest of the country. The dual influence has marked the region with an old-world charm and harmonious countryside that just can’t be replicated.

Germany’s influence is seen in both its cuisine and architecture. The villages throughout Alsace are renowned for their half-timbered homes and striking Gothic churches. The capital Strasbourg is no exception with beautiful homes found in both La Petite France and Grande Ile neighborhoods.

Taking the Alsace Wine Route, you’ll drive through 170 kilometers of bucolic countryside where every stop features a delightful village and yes, great food and wine. Highlights of the route include Colmar . This town encapsulates all that is good here in the Alsace Region. The surrounding hills make the rest of the world feel far away.

You can look forward to half-timbered homes and balconies draped with flowers. Vineyards flow over the hillside like blankets and the Rhine River is the cherry on top of a fairy tale village.

4. Chamonix

In the shadows of Mont Blanc, Chamonix has long inspired mountain lovers and fans of chalets alike. One of France’s oldest alpine resorts, the splendor of its scenery, is matched by the oft-bougie mountain culture.

Epic skiing, mountaineering and the odd marathon fill the outdoor calendar in Chamonix. Such are the epic mountains, you can ski and board here year round. While at the La Vallee Blanche glacier, you can ski uninterrupted for over 20 kilometers.

But you’ll find just as much to do here if these thrills don’t quite pique your interest. The area’s year-round community and the delight of Chamonix Town ensure there’s much to do off-piste. Cafes line the pedestrianized main street and the picturesque village will have you reaching often for your camera.

After a day of adventure, you can partake in the après-ski of your fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Live music flows through the surrounding streets, leading to dancing and a few too many cocktails.

3. Dordogne

In southwestern France, the Dordogne region is incredibly enticing thanks to its array of undulating landscapes, tranquil villages and medieval bastides. It’s a place to discover some of the best of France’s countryside, both the towns and nature.

The Dordogne River courses through the region and is the source of much of its lush nature. Come the summer, the cool waters of the river welcome kayakers, swimmers and those who dabble in fishing. You’ll also spot plenty lining the riverbank basking in the sun. Away from the river, the rolling hills attract hikers and mountain bikers. There are towering craggy cliffs that bring the chalky hands of climbers.

For a more relaxed pace, you can bounce between the idyllic villages, such as La Roque-Gageac. This town features a collection of sandstone homes surrounded by palms at the base of a rising cliff. Then there’s the 13th century settlement of Domme.

The bastide village has an archway entrance and a vibrant old town with artisan shops and restaurants set within medieval buildings.

2. French Riviera

Encompassing a splendid stretch of the Mediterranean, the French Riviera (Cote d’ Azur) is an opulent escape. In southern France, this region is soaked in sun most of the year. This exacerbates the color of the azure waters to heavenly status.

You’ll find a handful of enchanting towns along this coast from Saint-Tropez to Menton. These hug the coast with glee, forming a waterfront destination that has been drawing travelers since the 1800s.

Although the Riviera is famous for the glamour of St. Tropez, Monaco or the Cannes Film Festival , there are many other less well known destinations, such as the perched villages of Eze and Saint-Paul de Vence , and the perfumeries of Grasse to name a few. The Riviera has been the inspiration for many well-known artists such as Picasso and many of their works are on display in local museums and art galleries.

And then there’s Nice . Arguably the best of the lot. There’s something for everyone, from the region’s patented beachfront to plenty of history. As you discover Nice, you’ll have the pleasure of doing so along her cobbled streets and tree-flanked avenues. There are art galleries and museums and southern French cuisine for a flavor explosion in your mouth.

There may be no destination on earth that tops bucket lists as much as Paris . Yes, you’ll find the crowds here. But it’s a city that has stood the test of time. If anything, it’s made it all the more romantic.

The grandiose city, home to the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame Cathedral, still sparks the heart of even the most stoic traveler. It’s a place of rich heritage, one that’s written on the facades of buildings throughout the inner city.

There are museums to discover , even beyond the Louvre. Such as the Musee de l’Orangerie and the Musee d’Orsay. What’s more, Paris boasts magnificent gardens such as the Luxembourg Gardens. But it’s the people, the living culture that is most captivating. Any aimless wander down the Champs-Élysées, the Latin Quarter or the Seine will attest to this.

The best and cheapest way to get around Paris is on foot, and secondly, using the excellent underground train system, known as the Métro.

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Reader interactions.

June 29, 2018 at 7:55 am

France has some many great things to offer. The city that i like is Narbonne and the beaches next to it (Gruissan, La Franqui) . These are the typical south villages that YOU must visit.

September 21, 2017 at 2:25 am

Guys you really have to go to Biarritz! The city is located in “Basque Country” which is one the most beautiful place in France with lot of culture, beautiful architecture, wonderful landscapes and a tasty cuisine. Furthermore you are close to Spain and the stunning city of San Sebastian. Lots of beautiful towns to discover in Basque country, such as “Saint Jean de Luz”, “Bayonne”, “Guéthary”, “Espelette”. Try to go there during April, May and June. Summer is overcrowded by tourists.

September 13, 2017 at 7:59 pm

I went to France it was so magical like as if you were in a fairytale or in a book. I got to see the Eiffel Tower it was bigger than I thought. I would love to go there again????

June 20, 2017 at 4:00 am

I have been to France several times i suggest going to Mon Saint Michel and to a little town called Sainte Anastasie

June 12, 2016 at 11:56 pm

Everybody’s opinion is different… What one dislikes another may enjoy.

February 28, 2016 at 8:51 pm

So my wife and I toured Western Franc back in ’99. We both love Paris, but the countryside and smaller towns is where the magic is. We found Saint-Emilion our favorite. A beautiful medieval town with great food and atmosphere. The seaside city of La Rochelle was wonderful as well, what a great place to walk around and great seafood. We really enjoyed Mont Saint-Michel. We stayed in a manor in Pontorson and thoroughly enjoyed it – that stay was somewhat of a high point (great food). Angers also felt like a hidden gem; the castle was beautiful and a great walking town. The chateaux in the Loire were phenomenal – we enjoyed Azay-le-Rideaux, Chenonceaux, Chambord, and Davinci’s home in Amboise. We also took a trip up to Vendôme and say the abbey and checked out the ruined acqueduct outside Luynes. A dolmen in Cognac was also really cool. These nuggest away from the big cities IMHO are highlights. That said, the big cities are great – good food and things to see, but French culture and spirit is more captured when you leave them.

February 24, 2016 at 6:57 am

totally wrong : this rank does mostly consider big cities, not much countryside. The true spirit of France is not in Paris, sorry, and not in French Riviera either ! Go and visit the countryside, average cities, small villages… The best villages are not in the Loire valley..: go to south Lemuel is wrong : if you look for turquoise beaches and clean sand go to west Brittany, or Corsica. Beach near Nice are ugly and dirty…

(a guy born in France)

March 18, 2015 at 4:10 am

I’ve always been a huge fan of Paris and don’t think that’ll ever change. That said, you’ve made the Loire valley look pretty tempting too! I can hardly believe that chateau 🙂 Is it open to the public?

January 7, 2015 at 5:44 am

Arles is a fantastic city to visit for all the reasons you mention. If your readers like Arles they will find Avignon nearby, which is just as fascinating to visit with its medieval history, stunning buildings and Papal connections.

December 23, 2014 at 3:06 am

france is my dream. after i graduate i will go here and cherish every moment. see you soon FRANCE 🙂 God’s will.

June 30, 2014 at 1:36 am

I want to visit France in the month of September. I am looking for back packers to stay. Which place would be ideal to stay to travel around France ?

June 4, 2014 at 8:18 pm

france is my dream. after i graduate i will go here and cherish every moment. see you soon FRANCE 🙂 God’s will.

May 21, 2014 at 9:30 am

i am planning to visit France soon. Can anyone suggest what’s the best way to go to Nice form Paris(cheap and fast)

March 3, 2014 at 10:37 am

love love Paris

July 17, 2013 at 10:09 pm

You forgot Mont Saint Michel…

June 19, 2013 at 10:02 pm

I love Loire Valley and Nice. If you enjoy villages, you gotta check Loire valley, very beautiful. And if you love turquiose beach with clean sand and neat environment you gotta try Nice.

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50 Best Places to Visit in France

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It seems almost impossible to pick the best places to visit in France. In a country with some of the most famous landmarks in the world, how do you narrow down the list?

Don’t worry – we know it’s hard, so we’ve done the research for you so you can just pick your favorites and plan your trip. From some of the world’s best museums to stunning beaches to vineyards and buzzing cities, France really does have something for everybody.

Keep reading for a great selection of the best hiking trails, shorelines, city breaks, and more.

1 – Versailles Palace

This former royal residence less than 20 km from Paris should be in your list of top places to visit in France. Although the Versailles Palace was originally a small hunting lodge back in the early 1600s, it was soon rebuilt as a chateau and eventually a palace. Between 1682 and 1789, it was also France’s government seat.

The palace is a massive construction of over 2,300 rooms (not all open to the public), surrounded by almost 2000 acres of beautifully manicured gardens.

The Royal Apartments, the Salon of Diana (Louis XIV’s billiards room), the golden private apartments of the King and Queen, and the stunning Hall of Mirrors are all must-sees inside the palace.

Check out the different Versailles tickets price to make sure the areas you want to visit are included. For a more personalized experience, you can opt for one of the best Versailles tours .

2 – Provence

Provence is famous for its sunny weather, medieval towns, and truly great food. Nothing says Provence more than lavender, though. Between June and August, large fields turn purple as lavender blooms under the strong summer sun – one of the best places to visit in France for Instagram addicts.

Villages in the Luberon and Verdon regions are popular destinations as a jumpstart point for exploring local lavender fields, but these charming hill-towns (and especially Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Roussillon, and Gordes) are also very photogenic and filled with weekend markets and theater festivals.

For old architecture and picturesque little streets, Avignon is hard to beat. Explore stone bridges, walk under ancient stone archways and discover hidden parks and gardens.

Most popular lavender fields tours start from Nice , Avignon , Aix-en-Provence , and Marseille .

Read more: Fun things to do in Aix-en-Provence

3 – Mont Saint Michel

One of the best Normandy tours from Paris is a trip to Mont Saint Michel, a tidal island off the coast of Normandy. During low tide, it’s possible to walk across the bridge or take a shuttle bus to the island – but once you cross the admission gates, walking is the only option. There’s also no way to get in or out of the island during high tide.

In fact, there’s only one main road on the island, which goes through a tiny village (where you can grab a bite to eat and some souvenirs) and then up towards the Gothic-style Benedictine abbey complex.

Not only is the island one of the best places to visit in Normandy , but also one of the most unique. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and its bay are a photographer’s dream.

4 – Loire Valley castles

The Loire Valley has the densest concentration of castles in France – over 300 of them, including ruins, small fortresses, and beautifully preserved chateaux.

Some of the best Loire Valley castles to visit include the Chateau de Chambord and the Chateau de Chenonceau. The Château de Chambord is considered the king of all the castles here. Built in the early 16th century, it’s a stunning French Renaissance structure is elaborated, home to a very unique double-spiral staircase, and open for tours. The privately owned Chateau de Chenonceau is the second most visited chateau in the country, after the Palace of Versailles.

Other must-see castles in the valley include the 16th-century Château de Chenonceau (built on a bridge crossing the River Cher), the very Disney-like Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, and the stunning Château of Amboise, which started life as a fortress.

5 – Paris

With so many things to do in Paris , it’s hard to pick just a few favorite ones. The City of Lights is one of the most popular places to visit in France, home to the Louvre Museum (are you an art lover? check the best museums in Paris ), the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre-Dame cathedral. Once you’ve visited the best Paris attractions , however, there’s still much more to see.

Paris’ romantic and cultural atmosphere, its great café culture and high-quality gastronomy all add up to its charm as well. You’ll find farmer’s markets sitting next door to Michelin-starred restaurants, and great flea markets sharing the spotlights with big names like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior.

6 – Calanques

The Calanques of Marseille are a series of limestone cliffs sitting right on the sea. They form a beautiful backdrop to small hidden beaches and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sea. They are the main attraction at the Calanques National Park, a protected area that covers 520 square kilometers of both land and sea.

Although many come here to sunbathe and enjoy the beach or try kayaking, exploring the Calanques on foot is the best way to discover its magic. There are easier and more challenging hikes here, with some of the best trails located in Marseilleveyre Massif, where amazing views will reward you after steep and heart-stopping walks.

7 – Champagne

Champagne day trips from Paris are ideal to discover the fantastic history of this region. The world’s most famous sparkling wine comes from the region of the same name, located not far from Paris and perfect as a day trip to remember.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its cellars and hillsides, Champagne has more than drinks to offer – though you should definitely try the Champagne route while there, which stretches over 70 km across charming towns and pasts historical monasteries and châteaux.

The region is also home to Roman ruins, Europe’s biggest fortified castle, and the High Gothic Reims cathedral, the coronation site of 25 French kings.

8 – Saint Tropez

No other place in France says glamour like Saint-Tropez. The most famous (and expensive) place to visit on the French Riviera, Saint-Tropez is the perfect destination to enjoy exclusive beach clubs, see massive yachts, and cross paths with the rich and famous.

Move away from the beach and you’ll also get to experience the old-world ambiance that makes this place unique, complete with the historic Vieux Port and harbor, typical Provençal market squares, olive groves, and cobblestone streets.

Lively and busy during the summer months, Saint Tropez is a great culinary destination as well as a great place to enjoy the nightlife.

9 – Orléans

Orléans was where young Joan d’Arc helped lead the army that defeated the English and broke their siege on the city. It was also the place where she was captured and put on trial. Today, her memory is alive in many places around the city, including a museum in her honor and the Joan of Arc Center created in the home where she once lived.

Every spring, a festival in her honor takes over the streets with special reenactments and attractions.

While here, visit Les Halles-Chatelet for all your shopping needs and stop by the Place du Martroi square to see Joan d’Arc’s bronze statue. The 17th-century Cathedral of Saint Croix and the Chateau de Chambord just outside the city are also beautiful places worth a visit.

10 – Arras

Located in Northern France, historic Arras is a destination filled with chateaus, the spectacular Grand’ Place and des Héros (two ancient marque squares surrounded by shops and restaurants), and Flemish-Baroque architecture.

Arras was a major battle site during WWI – this lead to heavy damage in the city and left behind a number of landmarks that continue to tell that story. The Carrière Wellington museum – created in the underground quarry tunnels used by soldiers to move and hide during war – is located 22 meters underground and it’s a must-see.

The World War I British Cemetery is worth visiting, and so is the 17th century Vauban Citadel now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11 – Saint Emilion

The Romans were already producing wine around Saint Emilion in the 3rd century BC, and that tradition continues today. World-famous red wine wineries and chances to tour beautiful vineyards are the main reasons to visit, but not the only ones.

A charming medieval village in the Bordeaux region, Saint Emilion is home to a 12th-century Monolithic church and an underground complex consisting of tunnels, caves, and catacombs.

Back up on the ground, enjoy exploring the local markets (wine, cheese, and traditional local macaroons will be available), hike the village surroundings, and walk out to the foot of the bell tower for amazing views over the town.

12 – Lille

Located just a few kilometers from the border with Belgium, Lille has strong Flemish roots. This is quite obvious in the architecture of the city, especially around the main square.

La Vieille Bourse (Old Stock Exchange) and the Palais des Beaux-Arts are both worth a visit to see some art, people-watch, and find some book treasures. If you’re visiting in September, don’t miss out La Braderie, Europe’s largest flea market in Europe with over 10000 sellers offering everything from antiques and collectibles to clothing, home décor, and great food.

Lille is also the birthplace of General Charles de Gaulle, who led France in the fight against Nazi Germany in WWII. His childhood home in Lille is now a museum.

13 – Nice

Located right on the French Riviera, Nice is the place to visit for sunny weather, blue waters, and golden sands.

Simply stroll the length of Promenade des Anglais for a chance to enjoy the beach or take a break for ice cream, coffee or a meal.

If you’re visiting in February or March, one of the best things to do in Nice includes experiencing the Carnival for amazing parades, special events, and parties that go on till early morning.

Some of the best day trips from Nice include Monaco (less than 30 minutes away), St-Paul de Vence for hilltop views and great art, and charming Antibes.

14 – Colmar

Visiting Colmar is like stepping right into a fairytale town. With cobbled streets, half-timbered medieval buildings illuminated with hanging lamps, and canals flowing everywhere, it’s no surprise that Colmar is supposed to be the town that inspired the village in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

In addition to its historical streets, the town is famous for its museums, which include the Unterlinden Museum (dedicated to local history and housed in a beautiful former convent) and Musee du Jouet (a toy museum). Colmar is also part of the Alsace wine region, famous for its white wines.

15 – Disneyland Paris

Looking for the best places to visit in France with kids?

Disneyland Paris is a two-park complex (Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios) covering an impressive 4,800 acres. Located just 20 km outside Paris, the complex also hosts seven Disney hotels, a golf course, and a shopping and dining area known as Disney Village.

Disneyland Park is modeled after the US-based parks and is divided into five zones, including Frontierland (designed as an American West mining town), Fantasyland (where the Sleeping Beauty Castle is located), and Discoveryland, which features attractions based on discoveries and inventions by famous European like Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci.

Walt Disney Studios Park celebrates films and show business, offering an insight into the world of Disney and Pixar’s animated characters.

For cheap Disneyland Paris tickets , always book in advance. You’ll save money and can get access to extras like skip-the-line benefits.

16 – Pyrenees

Sitting right on the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees mountain range is an inspiring natural destination. From snow-covered mountains to Alpine forests and glacial lakes to dramatic peaks and valleys, this is a destination that has it all.

Alpine skiing and climbing are both popular here, and so are hiking and bicycling. Parts of the Tour de France race crisscross through the Pyrenees. For those who want to go the distance, there are special trails here.

The famous Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne footpath is not for the faint of heart – it is 800 km long with an elevation change of 52,000 meters. To walk it from beginning to end, you would need at least 45 days.

17 – Annecy

Located just 35 km from Geneva, Switzerland, Annecy is a city shaped by water. In addition to being known as “the Venice of the Alps” for the beautiful canals cutting through the city, there’s also a river and lakes in the area.

An island in River Thiou is home to Palais de l’Isle – once a prison and today a museum dedicated to local history. Visitors should also stop by the Château d’Annecy, a restored castle that serves as a museum and offers great views over the city.

18 – Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

Perched on top of a hill above the Upper Rhine Plain, this 12th-century chateau is a must-see.

You don’t even have to step inside the courtyard to admire its beauty – just follow the path up the hill around the outer wall, past drawbridges and cannons, to reach a lookout point over the Black Forest. If you do step inside the castle, the best views are from the guard tower.

Guided tours are available, but you can also rent an audio guide and explore on your own. Visit the trophy room, the empress’s bed chamber, and the king’s bedroom.

19 – Dune du Pilat

As the tallest sand dune in Europe, the Dune du Pilat at Arcachon Bay is a sight to behold, one of the most popular places to visit in France. At just under 3km long and 500 meters wide – but growing every year – it is certainly impressive.

The dune is currently about 106 meters high and can be climbed. Not an easy task but the amazing views over the Atlantic Ocean from the top are worth the effort. There’s even a staircase if walking uphill on the sand proves too challenging – though we encourage you to give sand walking a try to truly experience the dune in all its glory!

There’s a restaurant nearby and a massive forest just steps away perfect for some hiking if you’re up for it.

20 – Gorges du Verdon

Looking for the best places to visit for nature lovers? A river canyon with turquoise-green waters, the Verdon Gorge is a popular destination for kayaking, remote beaches, and great hiking.

At about 25 km in length and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, the gorge offers plenty of multi-pitch climbing routes, some as high as 400 meters.

Reaching the gorge can be tricky, as you need a car. But if you’re up for renting one, it’s an easy two-hour drive from the French Riviera. If you’re up for hiking around, the viewpoints are breathtaking, but be ready for some tough ascents.

21 – Bayonne

This Basque-French city is Bayonne is famous for two very different things: its chocolate and for being the birthplace of the bayonet. You can catch up on the history of the second one in the local museum before heading to Bayonne Chocolate Street (yes, that’s a real thing) to try chocolate that’s still made using a 17th-century recipe.

The beautiful 13th-century cathedral (a  UNESCO World Heritage site) and its cloisters are also worth a visit. The oldest part of the city, Grand Bayonne, offers great shopping, while Petit Bayonne has museums and lively bars to offer.

The Fêtes de Bayonne festival in August attracts visitors from all over France.

22 – Giverny

A day trip to Giverny from Paris is a great way to discover this charming village. Once home to impressionist painter Claude Monet, the village now attracts art lovers who want to explore the home and gardens where he lived for over 40 years. Monet’s series of water lilies oil paintings were inspired by the flowers in his own pond.

The town’s Museum of Impressionism Giverny is a great place to learn more about Monet’s work (as well as the work of other Impressionists). The old Hôtel Baudy – now a cafe and restaurant – used to be the meeting place for artists like Cézanne and Rodin and is worth a stop as well.

Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Europe

23 – Bordeaux

The port city of Bordeaux is often referred to as the “world capital of wine.” With one of the world’s largest wine festivals (Vinexpro), hillsides covered in vineyards, and wineries offering great tastings, it’s no surprise wine is one of the main reasons visitors come here.

But Bordeaux is also home to over 300 historical monuments and landmarks, including the 1700s Place de la Bourse, the opera house Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, and a number of Roman ruins.

Other things to do in Bordeaux include biking along the Garonne river, visiting the La Base Sous-Marine art venue, and stopping by Cité du Vin, the world’s largest wine museum.

24 – Rouen

Located right on the River Seine, the city of Rouen is attached to many historical names. French novelist Gustave Flaubert (who wrote Madame Bovary) was born in Rouen, and Claude Monet rented a studio here in 1892 to create a series of paintings of the Rouen Cathedral. Joan of Arc was burned at the stake on the streets of Rouen and there’s now both a museum and a church dedicated to her story here.

The city also has a world-class art museum, an astronomical clock that dates back to the 14th century, and a beautiful Old Market Square built on the spot were Joan of Arc died. There’s also Vieux Rouen, an ancient road dating back to the 1200s where you can still see timber-framed houses,.

25 – Antibes

Located between Cannes and Nice, Antibes offers amazing seaside and great beach resorts that are more laid back and affordable than its neighbors. Plage de la Gravette (Antibes’ most popular) urban beach, Plage de la Salis and Plage du Ponteil are all equally beautiful.

The historic town of Antibes also boasts centuries-old castles and forts either right in town or within minutes. A former chateau, Musée Picasso once served as Piccaso’s own studio.

Another must-do here includes visiting the La Marche Provençal market to pick up fresh food, jams or other food souvenirs while listening to live music.

26 – Lyon

Considered France’s gastronomical capital, Lyon is a great destination to try a mix of Michelin-starred restaurants and bouchon , a unique type of establishment serving lunch.

Lyon is filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including a number of Roman ruins. These include two amphitheaters, which in summer are often used for performances and live concerts. Nearby, the Musée Gallo-Romain holds artifacts that retell the story of the Roman civilization in Lyon.

Other things to do in Lyon include visiting great museums like the Museum of Movies and Miniatures, the Petit Musée du Guignol (dedicated to puppets), and the Musée Lumière, dedicated to photography.

27 – La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a historic port town on the Bay of Biscay. The town’s Vieux Port (Old Harbor) features three medieval towers, plenty of seafood restaurants with beautiful water views, and boats you can jump on to cruise the bay day and night.

This lively destination has also plenty to offer in the form of a maritime museum, summer festivals, and even three urban beaches – La Concurrence beach is right in town, so you won’t have to travel far to bury your toes in the sand.

The local state-of-the-art Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and home to over 12,000 marine animals. Don’t miss our complete guide about the top fun things to do in La Rochelle .

28 – Porquerolles

This secluded island might be small (just 7km long by 3km wide) but it sure packs up the attractions. Porquerolles beaches are small but it will feel a bit like a tropical escape to walk the shoreline and dip your toes in the turquoise waters. Plage Notre Dame, perhaps the most beautiful of the beaches here, is a 40-minute bike ride away from the main village.

Back in town, head to 1600s Fort du Grand Langoustier or 1500s Fort Sainte Agathe for great views over the bay. Then have a seafood lunch near the water or try snorkeling if you’re visiting during the summer.

29 – Futuroscope

A unique high-tech amusement park, Futuroscope features lots of technology, visual effects, and lots of 3D and 4D rides. In total, 25 experiences (a combination of rides, live shows and activities) aimed at both children and adults.

Some of the most popular attractions here include the Gyrotour, which lifts you 45 meters into the air for great views over the park and the surroundings, and The Time Machine, an immersive travel-back-in-time experience with 3D images on a moving platform.

There’s also Virus Attack, where a simulator ride sends you inside the human body to fight a virus. When you’re ready for a break, head to the Aerobar, which airlifts you 35 meters up into the sky for a drink and snack break like no other.

30 – Saint Malo

A historic port once visited by pirates, Saint Malo was also extremely damaged by bombing during WWII. It took the French 12 years to rebuild it stone by stone.

The must-see place here is the walled ramparts that run along the length of the city and offer stunning views over the sea. Then head into town and look for the La Cour La Hussaye turret, visit the 12th-century Saint-Malo Cathedral, and walk the ancient cobblestone streets.

Saint-Malo has plenty of beautiful beaches as well. There’s Plage de Mihinic to catch the sunset, quiet and rocky Plage de l’Eventail, and Plage de Bon Secours with a seawater pool.

31 – Angers

Angers sits in the heart of the Loire Valley, famous for its wines and its many museums, castles, and chateaus. In fact, the Château d’Angers, originally built in the 9th century, is one of the town’s most important attractions.

It can be toured inside and out, but the star of the chateau is a large medieval set of tapestries measuring 140 meters long and featuring scenes from the Bible’s Book of Revelations.

Angers’ fine arts museum, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, is a great stop, and so is the 12th-century Angers Cathedral, For a more active day out, head to Terra Botanica, a unique theme park where all the attractions and rides are designed around plant life.

32 – French Alps

The French section of the Alps is a popular destination in both winter and summer. If you’re looking for a place to jump into adventure and thrills outdoors, this is it. The French Alps have it off – great skiing, mountain biking, lots of hiking trails, and even paragliding.

The skiing is hard to beat, with over 1,000 slopes – Les Trois Vallées region alone has 338 slopes and over 600km of pistes. And the towns of  Annecy and Chamonix are great destinations in the region, with plenty of charm, great food and plenty of their own attractions.

33 – Arcachon Bay

With over 150 square meters of space to explore, it’s fair to say you won’t get bored here. Some of the most popular coastal towns are in this area, and you’ll find plenty of beaches, promenades, and seafood restaurants around.

Arcachon Bay is where the famous giant Dune du Pilat is located, so if you’re already visiting to climb the sand dune, it’s worth staying longer to explore the area. The main town around the bay is Arcachon itself, close to the dune and with a beautiful historic town center.

Many charming villages surround the bay, including Andernos les Bains, home to the longest pier in the country and great festivals year-round.

34 – Deauville

The seaside resort of Deauville has a mild climate year-round, which means its beautiful 2.4km long stretch of golden beach is worth visiting even in winter. Rent an umbrella or bring your own towel and sat down on the sand. Either way, this is a great place to relax, sunbathe or go for a swim.

While here, tour the Villa Strassburger once owned by French writer Gustave Flaubert, walk the long boardwalk, or go shopping for great antiques and vintage decor. Or, if you’re here in August, you can catch a match at the Deauville International Polo Club.

35 – Lourdes

Lourdes is one of the world’s most popular pilgrimage places, with thousands of believers arriving at the religious sites every year. The Sanctuary of Lourdes, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, and the “holy water” spring at the Grotto of Massabielle are the main stops.

Catch the Funiculaire du Pic du Jer up a hill for a unique view over Lourdes, visit the Pyrenean Museum for indoor and outdoor exhibits (including models of Pyrenean houses) and stop by the 1,000-year-old Château-Fort De Lourdes.

36 – Toulouse

From exploring a labyrinth of enchanting streets to participating in its rich history and culture, there are a myriad of things to do in Toulouse that offer a glimpse into authentic French life.

Toulouse is often called La Ville Rose (the pink city) because many of the buildings in its Old Town are made of pale terracotta bricks that look pinkish in the sunlight. But the colorful city also has plenty of buildings painted in blues, violets, and oranges, making for a charming, lively view as you walk its winding streets.

The city is home to over 160 parks, a great destination for food lovers, and filled with architectural heritage and cultural attractions. Plus beaches, mountains and vineyards are all within a few hours from the city.

37 – Corsica

Great weather, plenty of sunshine, and over 1,000km of golden, sandy coastline are just some of the reasons to visit Corsica.

There are no shortage of fun things to do in Corsica for adventure seekers.

Located close to the Italian island of Sardina, Corsica is all about the outdoors. You’ll have a choice of over 150 beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, stunning views from green hilltops, and the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse, home to many endangered species.

Don’t miss Ajaccio Port, from where some of the best boat trips in Corsica depart. Ajaccio is also the birthplace of Napoleon (you can visit a museum dedicated to him here).

Corsica produces its own wines as well, so make sure you try some too.

38 – Etretat Cliffs

The chalk cliffs of Etretat, some of which are 90 meters high, are a great destination of unique rock formations in the Normandy region. A striking sight serving as background to beautiful sandy beaches, the cliffs offer lots of opportunities for hiking and photography.

Not only can you walk down to the beach for great views of the massive cliffs towering over you, but it’s also possible to hike the tops of the cliffs. Arrive at either sunset or sunrise for even more stunning photos, especially of the three massive stone arches over the water.

The resort town of Etretat, just minutes away, is host to a golf course, charming gardens, and a marquet square filled with timber-frame houses.

39 – Cannes

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a food lover, or an outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of fun things to do in Cannes .

Most famous for hosting the Cannes Film Festival, Cannes is also a hot destination for the rich and famous. Visitors come here for the Michelin-star restaurants, the luxury hotels, and the high-end parties that attract A-listers.

You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy Cannes, though. There are plenty of beaches to visit here (many public, which means free), so you can get plenty of sun and sea without breaking the bank. La Croisette promenade is flanked by golden sands on one side and luxury fashion shops on the other – a great place to be even if you’re just window shopping.

In town, stop by the Le Marché Forville food market to grab some cheese, snacks or flowers.

40 – Marseille

Marseille is France’s oldest city, so expect to find amazing architecture when visiting. A good example is the 19th-century Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, which sits on a hill and offers amazing views over the city.

With hot, sunny weather and not much rain during the year, it’s no surprise that Marseille’s beaches are a top attraction. The Plage des Catalans (main city in town) and the Plage du Prophète, filled with activities. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for sailing and windsurfing on the shoreline too.

If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Marseilles , you can visit the Parc Longchamp, the Palais du Pharo, or the Marseille Provence Aquarium – where you can admire over 4,000 marine creatures from the Mediterranean and beyond.

Great day trips from Marseille include a visit to the  Parc National des Calanques for some swimming in beautiful beaches, a stop in Avignon to discover its many cultural delights, or an escape to Niece to experience the French Riviera in all its splendor.

41 – Burgundy

Burgundy has long been known for its exceptional wines, so make sure you visit some vineyards (some of the oldest vineyards in the world are here) or at least have a glass with dinner while there.

Some of the world-class wineries to explore in Burgundy are located on the Wine Trail — if you have a car, driving the route that runs from Chablis to Mâcon will take you to many great ones.

But the Burgundy region is also home to many other attractions worth exploring. Head to the Morvan National Park for white-water rafting, go on a truffle hunt, visit the Renaissance Château d’Ancy-le-Franc, and try one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants around.

42 – Biarritz

For a small town, Biarritz has a lot to offer. Located on the Bay of Biscay close to the border with Spain, it offers great golden beaches, lots of sun, and perfect surfing conditions.

Lots of great golf courses, health spas, and renowned Basque cuisine also attract visitors looking to relax and recharge surrounded by breathtaking ocean views.

Biarritz has plenty of historical and cultural attractions as well, including an innovative oceanographic museum, a Musée du Chocolat, and the Hotel du Palais, which was once the summer palace for Emperor Napoleon III’s wife Eugénie.

43 – Strasbourg

Once part of the German Empire (which explains the city’s German name), Strasbourg has been part of France since the end of WWI.

A major commercial and cultural destination, Strasbourg has plenty to offer to visitors – from great shopping to amazing Alsatian cuisine to an Old Town filled with medieval half-timbered houses.

There’s also the Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Strasbourg, Europe’s tallest medieval building (the spire reaches 142 meters high), and La Petite France area, a historic quarter with beautiful canals cutting through it.

Take a boat ride on the canals, explore some of the local museums (including the former Fort Rapp Moltke and the stunning Musee Des Beaux-Arts), and grab some art to take home – Strasbourg has plenty of great art galleries.

Looking for more ideas? Check out list of fun things to do in Strasbourg .

44 – Dordogne

Considered France’s black truffle capital, the Dordogne region is worth visiting even if it’s just for its amazing food. The area is a major wine producer and also famous for its great walnuts and jams. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from your visit, stop by a local food market to grab some goodies.

In addition to food, the Dordogne region is also popular for its great outdoors, which includes everything from picturesque hiking trails to beautiful gorges to flowering meadows. Cliff-top villages like Beynac-et-Cazenac pack on the charm, and there are castles and medieval towns to keep you busy for days.

45 – Carcassone

The medieval city of Carcassone is most famous for its UNESCO World Heritage fortified citadel surrounded by Gallo-Roman walls. The massive fortress has 52 towers and the citadel itself contains many landmarks worth visiting, including the Basilique St Nazaire with its stunning stained-glass windows and the narrow cobblestone streets of the tiltyard.

Don’t miss a walk on the 1.2 km long inner walls, the Comtal Castle (which looks like a Disney castle), and the 14th-century Pont Vieux of Carcassonne (Carcassonne Old Bridge), which offers the best photo opportunities and views against the citadel.

46 – Honfleur

Located in the heart of Normandy, Honfleur is a charming town filled with half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and a beautiful old port (Le Vieux Bassin) that’s been used for over 2,500 years.

The 15th-century Saint Catherine’s Church is one of the main landmarks here, but visitors should also stop by the cable-stayed Normandy bridge, and the Eugène Boudin museum, dedicated to the famous local painter. There are also plenty of art galleries and great restaurants to explore as well.

47 – Nantes

The birthplace of science fiction writer Jules Verne, Nantes is home to not only a museum dedicated to his life and work but also the unique Machines de l’île (Island of machines), a theme park that features machines inspired by his work. These include a giant mechanical elephant you can ride and a three-level carousel.

The 13th-century The Chateau Des Ducs De Bretagne (and the local history museum inside it) is another must-see, and so is the Old Town center with medieval half-timbered houses. Nantes also has a great art scene and is just steps away from the coast and beautiful beaches.

Don’t miss our selection of fun things to do in Nantes .

48 – Avignon

Avignon is mainly known for its significant historical heritage. In the 14th century, Avignon was the center of Christianity, as popes lived here to escape the rampant corruption happening in Rome at the time.

Today, you can visit Le Palais des Papes , the massive 15,000 square meters fortress they called home for many decades. If you visit in July, don’t miss out the International Theater Festival set inside the palace.

Many structures in Avignon have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the palace, the Petit Palais museum, the Cathedral des Doms, and the Avignon bridge .

49 – Glénan Archipelago

A string of nine islands and many tiny islets, the Glénan Archipelago is located off the coast in Brittany’s South Finistère. As you might expect, it’s filled with stunning white sandy beaches turquoise waters that are popular with divers and filled with seabirds and beautiful nature.

A perfect place to try water sports, swim with the harmless basking sharks, and explore the five-kilometer long Mer Blanche dune. The fort on Stork Island is worth a visit, and Saint Nicholas island access to ruins and lots of quiet sandy beaches.

50 – Overseas France

Feel like jetting off away to the Caribbean or Indian ocean? France has plenty of overseas territories filled with lush vegetation, tropical beaches, and breathtaking views.

French Polynesia is made up of 118 islands including Tahiti with its volcanic black sand beaches and some of the best surfing you’ll find in the area. Looking for adventure and excitement? There are plenty of things to do in Bora Bora in addition to enjoying its stunning lagoons and marina life.

In the Caribbean Sea, the French islands of Martinique , Saint Martin , and Guadeloupe are the most visited. Martinique in particular is famous for its rich Creole cuisine, cultural heritage, and stunning beaches. In the Indian Ocean, Reunion island and Mayotte are two other beautiful tropical destinations.

Final Thoughts

Hope you’ve enjoyed our list of some of the most amazing places to visit in France. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a couple of weeks, you’ll find plenty of ideas here to help you plan your trip.

Have you visited any of these places or have something else to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

Best Places to Visit in Provence, France

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

Visit Provence, France

Provence is part of the French region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in the southeast of the country. It’s a beautiful area with amazing scenery, a history that goes back to Roman times, and adorable little villages. Whether you enjoy great food, sipping wine in sumptuous surroundings, or relaxing on the beach, you need to visit Provence!

Where to go in Provence? To help you get the most from your trip to this part of France, here are the best places to visit in Provence, France, for every kind of traveler. Some of these best places in Provence are high on our list of the best things to do in France !

ROAD TRIP ITINERARIES THAT COVER PROVENCE

• Road Trip Route du Mimosa
• The Ultimate South of France Road Trip Itinerary (2 weeks)
• The Ultimate Provence Lavender Route
• Road Trip Gorges du Verdon
• Luberon Road Trip

Most Beautiful Places in Provence, France

Where to visit in Provence for a weekend getaway or a longer trip? Here’s the best of Provence, with something for everyone.

Marseille is the capital of Provence and the second largest after Paris. It’s a Mediterranean city with a busy harbor and the ideal place to experience authentic France. Well connected to Paris with fast trains, a weekend in Marseille is super easy to organize from the French capital.

Marseille’s historic district of Le Panier is a must-see in Provence with its narrow streets, café terraces, and street-art-colored facades. You should also make sure to see the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde , with its views of the bay from the terrace, and the Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée (MuCEM) to learn more about the history of Mediterranean peoples.

TIP: The Marseille City Pass saves you time and money with free entry to Marseille’s top attractions and unlimited travel on public transport.

The Hilltop Villages of the Luberon

The Luberon region is another of Provence’s best places to visit. Located 70 km north of Marseille, it includes parts of the Vaucluse and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments. This is an area of extreme landscapes, as well as small hill towns that guard sleepy valleys and vineyards.

The hilltop villages in Luberon are popular tourist attractions, and most of them are listed as Most Beautiful Villages in France. From Bonnieux to Gordes and Roussillon, each of them has its own distinct character and features, and they are easy to visit on a day trip from Avignon (though we recommend exploring the area by car on a Luberon road trip ).

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is one of the top Provence cities to visit. Aix is the quintessential Provencal city, with a unique blend of history, balmy weather, and elegance. The tree-lined boulevards, Roman monuments, and ornate fountains of this city are a Provence must-see, and the city has a wonderful warmth that’s characteristic of Southern France.

There are numerous tourist attractions in Aix-en-Provence, and also welcoming cafés and a lively atmosphere. While you’re there, make sure you check out Les Deux Garçons , once a favorite hangout of Picasso and Edith Piaf, the architectural marvel that is Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur , Cézanne’s workshop , and Musée Granet , where you can see fine arts created by the greatest masters in history.

TIP: Explore the famous markets of Aix-en-Provence with this Aix-en-Provence Market Tour

Calanques of Marseille-Cassis

The Calanques of Marseille-Cassis is of the best places to go in Provence, France, for nature lovers. It’s a series of limestone cliffs and bays located between the fishing town of Cassis and the city of Marseille. Not all Calanques are easily accessible on foot, but there are plenty of inlets and bays that you explore with a catamaran tour or on a guided tour by kayak .

This is the perfect place for some outdoor adventures in the south of France. The scenery is simply spectacular, and you can do everything from kayaking to swimming, hiking, or sunbathing.

Lavender Fields of Provence

The lavender fields of Provence are one of the best places to visit in Provence, France. Located in the Luberon and near the towns of Valensole and Sault , the fields are seemingly endless seas of deep purple, complete with that heavenly smell under the balmy sun of the south of France.

The lavender season in Provence is different depending on where you go, so make sure you arrive before harvest time for the best views.

The Camargue

The Camargue Regional Natural Park is another of the most beautiful places in Provence. This natural area is located south of the city of Arles is the largest wetland in France, covering a surface of ​​100,000 hectares. The Camargue is famous worldwide for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and exceptional fauna.

The Camargue is designated as a Wetland of International Importance and Western Europe’s largest river delta. It’s a haven for wildlife and is home to more than 400 species of birds, countless insects, and larger wildlife, from Camargue horses to cattle. It is also an excellent place for a relaxing getaway in Southern France – Click here for the top-rated hotels in the Camargue .

The Colorado Provencal

If you are looking for unique places to see in Provence, then visit Rustrel for a total change of scenery. Rustrel is part of the region around Roussillon, famed for its dramatic, richly colored ochre landscapes.  

Here, you can walk in the Colorado Provençal , a beautiful hike through cliffs and multicolored ocher rocks shaped for centuries by erosion and the work of men. There are two walking trails available (1-2 hours), and they both combine the pleasure of hiking and discovering an industrial heritage. 

Hyères Islands

The Hyères Islands are one of the most beautiful places in Provence, France, for a relaxing vacation. They are a group of French islands off the town of Hyères in the Var department of Southeastern France. The Hyères Islands are often called the Iles d’Or or the Golden Islands and consist of three main islands and one smaller one. The smallest island, Île du Bagaud , doesn’t allow visitors.

The island of Porquerolles is the most popular of the four, with beautiful turquoise water, sandy beaches, a sleepy little village, and several wineries. Port-Cros , one of the other islands, is mountainous and home to a bird refuge and rare flora. And if you have the time, then you can explore Île du Levant , with its naturist community and privately owned village.

Avignon is on the left bank of the Rhône River. One of the most beautiful walled cities in France , Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Popes from 1309 to 1377.

Avignon is most famous for its medieval town and the Palais des Papes , Europe’s largest Gothic Palace and one of the most interesting places to visit in Provence. The Palais des Papes is a UNESCO-listed palace that was built in the 14th century when the papal court moved from Rome to Avignon.

The town of Avignon is filled with museums like the Musée du Petit Palais , with displays of artwork by Sandro Botticelli and Vittore Carpaccio. It also has beautiful churches and the famous Saint-Bénézet Bridge (Pont d’Avignon) , which partially spans the river.

TIP: This top-rated Avignon Walking Tour is an excellent introduction to the city.

Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon is the best place to visit in Provence for a relaxing day trip out of Aix-en-Provence or Nice. Located in the beautiful Verdon Regional Park , Gorges du Verdon is one of the largest canyons in Europe and reaches a depth of more than 700 meters.

The water in the gorge is a stunning bright turquoise color, and you can see the gorge from your car or take a boat /kayak and stop for dips in the water as you go. This natural landscape is also famous for its hiking and climbing routes, so it’s ideal for an active vacation.

The best way to explore this area is by car (check out this Gorges du Verdon road trip itinerary ). If you don’t have a car, you can join a Gorges du Verdon guided tour from Nice , and there are also guided tours from Aix-en-Provence .

Roman Provence

Provence is a region whose culture and charm has been influenced by thousands of years of history. Provence sounds like “province”. That’s because it was the first Roman province outside of what is now Italy, and the Romans called it “Provencia Romana.”

Under the Roman administration, the region’s economic and artistic life flourished. The towns of Orange, Arles, Nimes, Orange, Vaison la Romaine , and Fréjus are the best places in Provence, France, to see Roman vestiges in the region, like magnificent remains of arenas, amphitheaters, spas, and villas.

Also, don’t miss a visit (or a kayak tour!) to the Roman Aqueduct of Gard and the visit to Glanum , the most complete ancient archeological complex in France located outside Saint-Rémy.

TIP: This Roman Provence history tour from Avignon is ideal for history lovers.

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The South of France Is My Favorite Vacation Destination — Here Are Its 20 Best Places to Visit

The lavender fields, quaint villages, and beautiful beaches have my heart.

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.

Alexander Hafemann/Getty Images

France ranks among the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe — of course there are remarkable destinations in the country that gave us boeuf bourguignon , the Eiffel Tower , and Champagne. But with alluring beaches along the Côte d'Azur , magical lavender fields, and the vineyards of the Luberon, the South of France is a superb destination all on its own. I'm a professional travel writer who's been to 45 countries across six continents, and it's my absolute favorite place in the world to visit. If you’re planning on spending even just a few days in le Midi , this list will help you choose which of the region's many, many highlights to include in your itinerary.

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Gordes is one of the most beautiful small towns in the world , with roads and facades that seem to have sprung from the pages of a children's storybook. Unsurprisingly, tourists beeline to this enchanting Luberon village to see — and snap photos of — its cobbled lanes, white stone buildings, and churches.

Saint-Tropez

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A French Riviera hotspot put on the map by Bridget Bardot and other members of the jet-set pack in the 1960s, Saint-Tropez still sizzles. Sun-kissed holiday goers crowd glamorous beach clubs here, moor their mega yachts in the harbor, shop for breezy linens at the boutiques, and traipse around the old fishing quarter.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Just outside the tourist-trodden center of Gordes lies Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a photogenic monastery founded in 1148 by Cistercians monks. Guided tours of the church and cloisters are available throughout the year. When the lavender fields bloom in the summer, this site reaches peak prettiness.

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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Île Sainte-Marguerite floats about half a mile offshore from Cannes. In contrast to its mainland neighbor, the largest of the Lérins Islands is small, slow-paced, and steeped in nature. Expect rocky beaches, turquoise waters, and a eucalyptus forest, as well as a very interesting underwater sculpture museum.

Gabrielle Therin-Weise/Getty Images

It’s not hard to find enchanting hilltop towns in Provence. The enduring charm of Mougin that lured Edith Piaf and Christian Dior enamors all who visit. This medieval village has a snail-shaped center with cobbled lanes and flower-clad houses, plus large-scale art sculptures and award-winning restaurants overlooking the leafy countryside.

Oppède le Vieux

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In stark contrast to the Disneyland-like atmosphere of Gordes, Oppède le Vieux is an under-the-radar village that’s built atop rocks and surrounded by overgrown trees. The stone pathways, steps, and structures here are in various degrees of ruin, which imbues a time-worn charm.

Porquerolles

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Escape to Porquerolles, off the coast of Hyères, for a peaceful respite that can include time lazing on near-empty beaches, swimming in placid tides, sipping your way through vineyards, cycling in the countryside, and wandering through old forts.

Plage des Marinières

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Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the French Riviera, crescent-shaped Plage des Marinières in the darling village of Villefranche-sur-Mer is the perfect spot for a day of basking in the sun, strolling across golden sand, and splashing in the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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The exclusive commune of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long attracted the attention of artists and jet setters with deep pockets and a desire for privacy. Exquisite villas are obscured from sight by lush vegetation. Pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and a yacht-filled harbor define this desirable destination.

Site Archéologique de Glanum

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Named after the Celtic god Glanis, Site Archéologique de Glanum traces its roots back to 600 BC. It’s at this extensive site just outside the town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence that visitors can walk through remarkable surviving remains of both Gaulish and Roman settlements.

Le Sentier des Ocres

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The most iconic and unmissable sight in the Luberon village of Roussilian, Le Sentier des Ocres is a former ochre quarry with walking paths through rust-hued hills. The setting certainly provides spellbinding photo ops.

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Nice is a vibrant seaside city with a lovely historic core. If Vieux Nice is on your itinerary, begin with the Promenade des Anglais, then wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the pastel-hued facades and shopping for Niçoise soaps. Experience a Provencale market, grab socca (chickpea pancake) at one of the outdoor cafes, and soak in the views from Colline du Château before you depart.

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The untamed region between the Mediterranean Sea and the two branches of the Rhône River delta, Camargue defies preconceptions with its vastly different landscape. Rather than olive groves and grape vines, expect salt marshes and reed beds inhabited by free-roaming white horses and pink flamingos.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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Lavender is the emblem of Provence. The fields on the Valensole Plateau that erupt into a fragrant and gorgeous purple bloom each summer are some of the most popular — and photogenic — attractions in the region.

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Fragrance fans are no doubt familiar with Grasse, a French Riviera town in the hills behind Cannes that’s considered the perfume capital of the word. Rare roses and jasmine for designer luxury scent makers grow in this sunny village. It’s also home to many perfumeries.

Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole

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If you’re at all interested in the life and work of Vincent Van Gogh, consider a visit to Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole. This is the monastery-turned-psychiatric facility in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence where the tortured Dutch artist sought treatment and famously painted “The Starry Night.”

Palais des Papes

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The standout attraction in Avignon, the enormous Palais des Papes served as a pontifical residence in the 14th century. It's also on the shortlist of the most significant medieval Gothic buildings in all of Europe, with ceremonial halls, chapels, a cloister, and frescos.

Mines Bruoux

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Mines Bruoux , near Gargas, gives visitors the chance to tour a maze-like complex of tunnels and galleries in a 19th-century ochre mine. You will learn about the fascinating mining process as you go. The cool underground temperature provides a reprieve from the summer sun, too.

Promenade de la Croisette

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Few places embody French Riviera glamor quite like Promenade de la Croisette. Running along the Mediterranean Sea, the famous palm-fringed thoroughfare is crowned by Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, which hosts the Cannes Film Festival, and you'll find many upmarket hotels, shops, and restaurants here as well.

Carrières de Lumières

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For an unforgettable experience that speaks to Provence’s artistic pedigree, head to Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence. Housed in an old quarry, this contemporary art center hosts multimedia shows that combine larger-than-life projections of famous paintings and music.

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France holiday destinations: the most beautiful places to explore this year

Whether you want to taste world-class wines in lovely vineyards, explore prehistoric caves or laze on a Mediterranean beach, France has all of this and more

France has the perfect region for everyone – which is why we've rounded up our favourite France holidays to feature something everyone will love, from gorgeous coastal resorts and blissful islands to bustling cities, from national parks and reserves filled with thrilling outdoor pursuits to world-class art and architecture.

You might head for an alpine lake or be lured by a river beach, you might discover modern metropolises that are busy greening themselves for the 21st century and beyond, or you may be tempted by splendid châteaux, cathedrals and other great reminders of bygone eras. But perhaps the best thing about France is that you don’t have to choose – it’s all there for the taking in fantastic destinations in every corner of the land.

And anywhere you decide to go, you’re guaranteed the fabulous cuisine that is so much part of the reason people come back to France time and again.

Whether you're looking to travel by Eurostar or drive, there's a city , coastal spot or beautiful countryside to be explored. From Bordeaux to Lille and Provence to Marseille , these are the best France holiday destinations to discover this year.

At the heart of one of the world’s most revered wine-growing regions, this rapidly evolving river port draws oenophiles but also those who love French gastronomy and culture in general. Perhaps its main sight is the immense and wonderfully interactive Cité du Vin, but part of the charm of Bordeaux is just discovering its districts - including hip Chartrons - and its riverside on foot or by bike.

You’ll be rewarded for your amblings by architectural glories in styles ranging from Gothic and neo-classical to contemporary, by art and history museums galore, and of course by wine estates including the bijou Chateau les Carmes Haut-Brion within the city limits, with a spectacular modern wine cellar by Philippe Starck. Bordeaux is also a fantastic French destination to reach by train, less than six hours from London by Eurostar and TGV.

Where to Stay : The best Bordeaux hotels range from boutique urban boltholes to wine estates offering dining in the midst of the vines. Some have Michelin-starred restaurants and some even have grape-based spa treatments. Try the chic Mondrian Bordeaux , which opened recently.

Provence and the Côte d’Azur/French Riviera

A vast and varied area, the South of France (the historic province of Provence, which is now largely equivalent to the modern-day Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region/Région Sud) embraces everything from the North-African-inflected city of Marseille and glam, yacht-filled resorts such as Nice, Cannes and St Tropez to tiny timeless villages lost amid rugged countryside scented by local herbs.

Provence and the Côte d’Azur are perfect for anything from a long weekend in France to a full-on holiday, and the weather is mild enough even in February to make this a great pick for a winter break. It’s also easy reached by Eurostar and TGV.

Where to stay : The best Provence hotels are inspired by surrounding nature, whether it’s lavender fields or Mediterranean beaches, and many have great restaurants showing fresh produce including fish fresh from the fishing boats – some holding Michelin stars. See also our round-up of recommendations in the laidback Riviera resort of Antibes with its cobbled streets, 16th-century ramparts and Picasso museum. Try La Place Boutique Hotel , located in the old town of Antibes.

Loire Valley

Dating from its 150 years as home to the French court, the castles of the Loire Valley are so impressive that this entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Among the most breathtaking are Chenonceau straddling the Cher river, and the almost ridiculously opulent Chambord, the biggest, including a famous open double-helix staircase said to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

But the landscapes of the Loire Valley are spectacular too, from the wide swathe of the River Loire itself to the vast old hunting forests full of stags and wild boar, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including boat cruises, canoeing, cycling along the river banks, and exploring local cave homes.

How to visit: Country Living's tour of the Loire Valley takes in several extravagant châteaux, magnificent cathedrals and abbeys, and lush gardens.

Now an an artists’ village with workshops, galleries and a re-creation of a historic artists’ studio, this Normandy beauty spot 75km north-west of Paris was home to Claude Monet for half his life, from 1883 to 1926, and provided inspiration for his iconic water-lily and Japanese bridge paintings.

Long a pilgrimage site among both art and plant lovers, it’s back in the limelight thanks to the film Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse . You can also see other sites in the surrounding Seine Valley that inspired Monet and his fellow Impressionists.

How to visit : Giverny is the focal point of our tour of Monet’s France through paintings and gardens, accompanied by Paula McWaters and also including the chance to immerse yourself in Monet’s vast Les Nymph é as (The Water Lilies) in Paris’s Musée de l’Orangerie.

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From its Haussmannian boulevards to its great green spaces, the City of Lights is always a delight, no matter how many times you visit or with whom. There are too many sights to do justice to here, but among the highlights are the Jardin du Luxembourg with its sculptures, boating pond and puppet theatre, the Jardin des Plantes – botanical gardens housing three natural-history museums – and of course the Seine (a river cruise is a great way to take in several major landmarks including Notre-Dame cathedral).

Paris is also a glamorous destination for foodies and fashionistas, with some of the world’s best dining plus superb shopping everywhere from neighbourhoo boutiques and historic department stores to incredible fleamarkets.

Where to stay : Hôtel Madame Rêve has a beautifully nostalgic setting in Paris’ old central post office near the Louvre, a breathtaking decor of boiserie panels, golden velvet and 8m-high ceilings, and fabulous views from its top-floor restaurant and roof terrace.

Oozing creativity, innovation and cultural dynamism, this port city on the Loire River in western France has the unique attraction of the amazing Machines de l’Ile, a collection of giant mechanical ‘living machines’ based on the imaginings of Jules Verne, Leonardo da Vinci and others, some of which you can ‘test’ or even ride, including the 12m-tall Great Elephant and the Marine Carousel.

Jules Verne was born in the city, and there’s also a Musée Jules Verne with a multi-media trail. Another must-see is the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, including displays on Nantes’ role in the slave trade.

Nantes is also a very green city, with an evolving network of eco-friendly transport including new tram lines and green zones for pedestrians and cyclists. It’s also handy for the seaside in destinations including La Baule, Le Croisic and Noirmoutier island with its oyster huts.

Where to stay : The first five-star hotel in the area, a few minutes from the city centre, the Château de Maubreuil sits in a wooded estate with lovely gardens and offers a Cinq Mondes spa and superb dining.

Pastel-painted houses lining the river and canal banks, winding cobbled alleys and array of green spaces make the ‘Venice of France’ a fairytale destination - especially in its Vieille Ville (Old Town). It also holds the rare Fleur d’Or (‘Gold Flower’) award from the national association Villes et Villages Fleuris (‘Cities and Villages in Bloom’).

Other highlights of this capital of the Haute Savoie region of south-eastern France are the Pont de l’Amour or Lovers’ Bridge, a wrought-iron affair with to-die-or mountain and lake views, and the Jardins de l’Europe – laid out by Henry I, Duke of Savoy-Nemours, with ginkgo bilboas, laricio pines, giant sequoias and a tulip tree. There’s also walking, cycling and lake-based water sports to enjoy.

Where to Stay : Hôtel Le Pélican occupies a former alms house transformed by star architect Christian de Portzamparc and offers lake and mountain views from many of its rooms and other spaces, which include a bistro and an artisan bakery. There’s also a seasonal outdoor pool with a pool bar.

The birthplace of art is so named for having some of the world’s oldest cave paintings, and while you can’t access the most famous caves, Lascaux, for risk of damaging their 16,000-year-old artworks, you can see reproductions of two of the cave halls at nearby Lascaux II and further reproductions in Le Thot – Centre d'Interpretation de la Prehistoire.

Once ruled by the British, Périgord – as the French know it – is still popular for its slower-paced of life, its rolling countryside dotted with lovely châteaux, and its amazing, if often very rich, food (this is truffle country). But you can work it all off by swim or canoeing in or the Dordogne, especially at Limeuil, with its river-beaches. You can also take a trip along the river in a traditional gabarre , seeing fabulous castles en route.

Where to stay : Le Clos 1855 is a luxury B&B near Limeuil with the option of fabulous dining on local products, plus an outdoor pool for the summer months.

Lively festivals, beautiful beaches and incredible geological formations, record-breaking lighthouses, spiralling head-dresses ( coiffes ), record-breaking lighthouses, and even fairies (the shapeshifting korrigans of local myth)… The northwest corner of France is another world, although it shares a Celtic heritage with parts of Britain and many of its ancient sites were built by the same folk as Stonehenge.

Among must-sees are St-Malo, an ancient walled pirates’ city, the Côte de Granit Rose with its pinkish rocks carved by the elements, the wild, windswept island of Ouessant with Europe’s most powerful lighthouse and unique dwarf black sheep, and Carnac, the most important prehistoric site in Europe, with around 3000 menhirs older than Egypt’s pyramids, thought to have been a lunar observatory.

Where to stay : An icon and an institution dating back nearly 150 years, the Hôtel Barrière Le Grand Hôtel is a classic seaside hotel with views of the St-Malo ramparts and a spa with a pool, sauna and hammam.

It’s not hard to fall in love with this French island perched out in the Mediterranean, clad in fragrant evergreen maquis and studded with ancient cork oaks and olive trees. Time seems to stand still here as you hike past rock roses, prickly pears and immortelles while red-tailed kites circle overhead.

Among the island’s most charming spots are the Balagne region with its hilltop villages including Montemaggiore and Pigna with their charming rustic architecture and authentic little bars serving fresh lemon and clementine juice from Corsica’s orchards. The bustling ports of Bastia, Ajaccio and Porto-Vecchio are all worth spending time in too, and the local markets are sensational.

Where to stay : A family-owned five-star in the Relais & Châteaux portfolio, the Grand Hôtel de Cala Rossa overlooks a vast sandy beach in the bay of Porto-Vecchio and includes a swanky Nucca spa.

More European ideas:

- The best hotels in Geneva

- Where to stay in Rotterdam

- Vienna's best hotels

- The best hotels in the Dolomites

- The best hotels in Iceland

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8 of the best cities to visit in France for a short break

The french cities you should visit, from bordeaux to cannes, whether you’re after bountiful vineyards, glamorous seafronts and historic cultural hubs, article bookmarked.

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Our French neighbours have no shortage of cultural hotspots that make for exciting city breaks. Stray beyond the iconic arrondissements of France ’s poster child,  Paris , and you’ll discover a wealth of food, fashion and art destinations just across the English Channel.

Famous for its rich regional cuisines – we’re talking fine wines, mature cheese and freshly baked baguettes – these cities have more than enough ingredients for tourists to embrace authentic French culture.

In the summer, days spent leisurely lunching in Cannes compete with soaking in the sights of majestic cathedrals in Reims for attention – Europe’s second-largest country is as dynamic as it is vast.

The country’s varied landscape is home to mountain ranges, idyllic islands and bustling cosmopolitan hubs with diverse weather conditions that facilitate holidays from exhilarating snow sports to romantic city breaks and relaxing beach stays on the French Riviera .

From coastal Ajaccio to medieval Lille , here are the best cities to visit to indulge in the ultimate French experience.

Read more on France travel :

• Is it possible to eat out in Paris for under €20? The restaurants making French dining affordable
• France travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go
• Paris city guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in the French capital

Notable for its 17th-century architecture alone, northern Lille is a hub of art collections, shopping districts and world-famous waffle houses, all easily explorable on foot. The capital of the Hauts-de-France région , the city is small enough to discover in one weekend, but brimming with attractions such as the historic centre of Vieux-Lille and Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, to satisfy those seeking French cuisine, design and traditions. Dine like the locals at Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille on authentic Flemish beef dishes and pâtés in a cosy traditional restaurant.

Where to stay

Au 30  offers self-catering suites and apartments in the centre of Lille. The modern units have hot tubs, saunas and cosy seating areas – all just a stone’s throw away from the Zénith of Lille, Grand Palais and Aeronef music venue.

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France’s oldest city has a rich history as a prosperous trading port dating back to ancient Greece. The cosmopolitan coastal city on the Gulf de Lyon hosts sun, sea, creative culinary scenes and a fusion of cultures in its Mediterranean climate, and was named a European Capital of Culture in 2013. From the old harbour to the impressive Mucem museum and the hilltop Notre-Dame De La Garde, a  Marseille  holiday is a feast for the eyes and stomach. Find unique French delights in the boutiques and cafes of La Panier old town, and head to Calanques National Park by boat for the ultimate southern France city break.

Hôtel 96,  set in a 19th-century house on the outskirts of Marseille, boasts spacious rooms with modern decor, tranquil gardens and proximity to the beach. A relaxed atmosphere, family rooms and the stunning Calanques National Park welcome guests to France’s second-largest city.

Think rolling vineyards, gothic castles and fine wines when you book a holiday to Bordeaux. The  wine region  in southwestern France is home to famous grape blends, wineries and the Cité du Vin wine museum, but there’s more to the world’s wine capital than vineyard tours and tastings. Stay within Bordeaux’s stone streets on the Garrone River to admire the Unesco-listed architecture, Places des Quinconces fortress and the Grand Théatre. You can also take in panoramic city views from 229 steps up Pey-Berland bell tower – well worth the climb for a birds-eye look at Bordeaux’s ancient metropolis.

If avant-garde rooms, al fresco garden breakfasts and vineyard tours are what you desire from a Bordeaux holiday, then Hôtel La Maison Bord’eaux should fit the bill. Less than a 10-minute walk from The Grand Théâtre and a tram stop, the hotel also organises guided tours of Saint-Emilion and Médoc vineyards.

The capital of the French island Corsica, Ajaccio boasts wide open squares with traditional French bistros, gold sand beaches and a bustling marina in its horseshoe-shaped bay. Charming ancient streets, chic shopping promenades and a classic Mediterranean climate set Ajaccio up as the lesser-known little sister to iconic cities on the Cote d’Azur. The birthplace of Napoleon still holds the French emperor close to its identity – monuments, museums, squares and bistros bear his name and you can visit Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon’s childhood home, to learn the highlights of the historic military leader’s life.

Hôtel Spunta Di Mare , on the seafront of Corse Azur Beac, features a monochromatic design, a heated indoor swimming pool and panoramic views of Ajaccio Bay. Enjoying regional wines, French cuisine and buffet breakfasts is on the menu for guests, and water sports excursions can be arranged.

Toulouse , a pink-hued city packed with pastel architecture, buzzing markets and aeronautical industries, sits near the French border with Spain. The pink city – “La Ville Rose” – is the capital of the Occitania region and three Unesco World Heritage Sites dot the terracotta streets: the Canal du Midi, Roman Basilica of St. Sernin, and former hospital, Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques. A tango festival comes to Toulouse in July, and jazz bars and speakeasies by the Garonne River come alive for summer in a fusion of French nightlife that’s not to be missed.

Le Grand Balcon Hotel  features 1930s decor, continental buffet breakfasts and a contemporary bar on the doorstep of Place du Capitole and its opera house. The designer labels of Galeries Lafayette are a five-minute walk away from the modern, neutral rooms and suites.

Luxury seafront resorts, designer boutiques and dining on fresh oysters and speciality stews are synonymous with a stay in Cannes. The cinema city on the French Riviera is famous for its film festival , red carpet events and iconic promenade, Boulevard de la Croisette. Glitz and glamour are easy to find even out of the summer season in couture stores, intimate bars and a wealth of decadent palaces looking out on the pristine yachts and striped beach clubs of the Cannes coast.

Just metres from the Palais des Festivals and Croisette Beach,  Hôtel Barrière Le Gray d’Albion  exudes prestige and coastal style. Spacious luxury suites feature large terraces and the hotel’s private beach with seasonal Mediterranean restaurant, Mademoiselle Gray, is the perfect spot for soaking up the sun.

Just a 45-minute train ride from Paris , Reims is a city of royal heritage, Gallic relics and the soft fizz of champagne. The Unesco-listed Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, which played host to the coronation of French kings for over 1,000 years, is the city’s crowning jewel – and the decadent delights don’t stop there. Known for its prestigious champagne houses, including Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger and Pommery, raise a glass to the city of kings on a tour of the cellars and surrounding patchwork of vineyards. The best part? Reims is largely walkable, so there’s no need to call a taxi home after a few glasses of bubbly.

Best Western Premier Hotel de la Paix , a design hotel in the heart of Reims, boasts contemporary rooms, a sun terrace and an on-site restaurant. The central location, modern furnishings and indoor pool give holidaymakers a place to relax between afternoons spent at the local cafes and bistros.

At the gateway of southern France, Valence welcomes visitors to its sunny riverside, 11th-century cathedrals and cobbled pedestrianised streets. A culinary hub of speciality bites, days spent roaming the romantic bandstands and ornate gardens of Park Jouvet are fuelled by Suisse de Valence orange brioche and evenings at one of three Michelin-starred restaurants, including Maison Pic. Visit at Christmas to take in the festive spirit of the biggest market in the Drôme region.

The elegant  Hotel Victoria  offers sleek decor, a quaint terrace and a cosy bar. A short walk from Valence town hall, chic and comfortable bedrooms, marble bathrooms and continental breakfasts are waiting for guests at the boutique hotel.

Read more: Best hotels in Paris, from Eiffel Tower views to luxury locations

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The best places to visit in the south of France: These charming spots are must-see

Is le midi calling your name.

Are you thinking about visiting the south of France? Southern France, also known in French as le Midi, consists of the regions of France that border the Atlantic Ocean, Spain , and the Mediterranean Sea. From the beautiful beaches of the French Riviera to the historic towns nestled in Provence, this region offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. If this area is calling your name, then consider these south of France cities and towns for your next getaway.

Saint-Tropez

Montpellier, plan your trip to the south of france today.

Nice is nestled on the French Riviera and boasts stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The city is both beautiful and historic, with several cultural gems located around the city. Whether you want to relax on a pristine beach or take a walk down charming cobblestone streets, Nice has something for you.

Things to do

• Marc Chagall National Museum: This museum is home to an impressive collection of Chagall’s works.
• Old Town: Explore the narrow streets of Old Town, which features shops, cafes, and Baroque architecture.
• Promenade des Anglais: This iconic seaside boulevard is perfect for a peaceful walk.

Cannes is one of the best south of France cities and is the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Famous for its annual film festival, its palm-lined Boulevard de la Croisette is adorned with lavish hotels and luxury boutiques. Visitors in Cannes can relax on white sandy beaches, explore historic sites, and indulge in fresh seafood with a view of the Mediterranean Sea.

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• La Croisette: Walk this famous promenade lined with luxury boutiques and hotels.
• Palais des Festivals: Visit the venue of the renowned Cannes Film Festival.
• Mus é e des explorations du monde: This museum features 19th-century Riviera landscape art and instruments in a medieval tower.

Saint-Tropez, a former fishing village turned glamorous resort town, is easily one of the best places to visit in the south of France. Its iconic port is lined with luxury yachts from all over the world, while its cobblestone streets are filled with several shops, restaurants, and galleries for visitors to enjoy. Saint-Tropez is also known for its nightlife scene, which has long attracted artists and celebrities from all over the world.

• La Citadelle: Walk around this 17th-century fortress and enjoy the panoramic views.
• Plage de Pampelonne: Relax on this world-famous beach.
• Old Port: In this area, you’ll find luxury yachts and waterfront dining options.

Avignon is located in the heart of Provence and is known for its rich culture and beautiful architecture. The breathtaking Palais des Papes stands as a testament to its former papal power, while the iconic Pont d’Avignon bridges the Rh ô ne River. If you are visiting in July, then check out the Festival d’Avignon, which is the oldest existent festival in France.

• Avignon Festival: If you are visiting in July, check out this performing arts festival.
• Palace of the Popes: Tour this iconic Gothic palace.
• Mus é e de Petit Palais: This art museum features works by artists from the Renaissance era.

Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its beautiful architecture and Roman treasures. The well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre hosts several events throughout the year, while the cityscape was the inspiration for many of Vincent van Gogh’s iconic paintings. The city was first built in 6th Century BC, and is now home to over 50,000 people.

• Roman Amphitheatre: This ancient arena is still in use today.
• Van Gogh Trail: Follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, who painted many of his masterpieces here.
• Camargue Natural Park: Explore unique wildlife at this nearby park.

Marseille is France’s oldest city, founded in 600 BC by Greek settlers. This vibrant city is a main landing point for immigrants from the other side of the Mediterranean Sea and is therefore a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and landscapes. Marseille is home to several eclectic neighborhoods, a vibrant arts scene, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

• Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde: This grand basilica is located at the city’s highest point.
• Château d’If: Take a boat out to this gorgeous island, which features a 16th-century castle and former prison. 
• Marseille Cathedral: Take a walk around this luxurious 1800s cathedral.

When visiting the south of France, Montpellier is a must-see. Its elegant boulevards are peppered with fountains and cafes, while its medieval old town boasts winding streets and hidden squares. Home to the prestigious University of Montpellier, the city buzzes with cultural events, vibrant nightlife, and a youthful energy.

• Place de la Com édie: Wander around this central square at the heart of the city.
• Museé Fabre: Admire this museum’s impressive collection of European art.
• Promenade du Peyrou: Take a stroll through this area and enjoy views of the Arc de Triomphe and aqueduct.

Mougins is a quaint hilltop village situated in the French Riviera. This cozy village is surrounded by lush greenery and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean, making it the perfect relaxing getaway for travelers to the south of France. If you want to enjoy a taste of city life when visiting the area, Cannes is just a 15-minute drive from Mougins.

• Museum of Classical Art: This museum features works by Picasso and Warhol, as well as ancient art.
• Parc de la Valmasque: Enjoy a walk or picnic in this beautiful park.
• Mougins Village: Wander through this charming old village filled with art galleries and cozy restaurants.

The south of France offers a wide variety of experiences for all types of travelers. From the glitz of Cannes to the peaceful beauty of Mougins, the south of France promises an unforgettable travel experience.

For the best weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting these south of France cities during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). However, each season brings its own unique charm, from the amazing festivals of summer to the festive Christmas markets of winter.

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When I’m in a beautiful setting — like The Chin of Mount Mansfield —  I’ll get out my iPhone and begin snapping photos. Some places are too striking to ignore, and I’ll want to capture the moment to share on social media or reflect on later. Over time, it’s fun to build up a library and look back on those places.

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Visit gorgeous towns in italy and france when you stay here.

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A beach in Ventimiglia, Italy, on the French-Italian border.

Italy and France are among the most visited countries in the world and for good reason—an extraordinary trove of epoch-spanning cultural treasures and outstanding natural settings that include Alps, vineyard-covered countryside and captivating coastal areas. Since most vacations come with time limits, even the most devoted Franco-Italophiles know it isn’t always easy or practical to try to fit in both destinations in one frenzied holiday swoop.

But there is an easy solution if you don’t want to have to choose—stay on the westernmost part of the Italian Riviera (Imperia) or in the easternmost part of the Côte d’Azur (Menton) , so you can easily hop between Italy and France and experience some of the best locations each has to offer. If your hotel is in Sanremo, Italy, for example, Nice is only about an hour’s drive away. From Menton, you can travel the length of Imperia’s Riviera di Fiori, also in about an hour by car.

Here’s what to do and see in these neighboring and sublime coastal regions.

Visit the two-in-one towns

A view from Menton's old town.

A caruggio, or narrow street, in La Pigna, Sanremo's historic center.

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In the Middle Ages, many Riviera villages were located on perches overlooking the sea—the better to spot potential invaders and pirates hovering offshore, a recurring threat that lasted until the 1600s. Densely packed with compact stone houses and a warren of steep streets, these hamlets typically tucked churches, a castle stronghold and surveillance towers within their fortified walls. In later centuries, newer districts grew up around the ancient cores, so when you visit today, you get an old-town/new-town experience.

The shopping district and Via Giacomo Matteotti in Sanremo.

Sanremo’ s old town is called “La Pigna” (pinecone), as the streets were mapped in a way that resembles the pattern of pinecone scales. Dating from 1000 A.D., La Pigna is easily accessible from Sanremo’s major shopping street, Via Giacomo Matteotti. The Regina Elena Gardens, named after a queen of Italy, make a nice resting spot after the trek to the top of this historic settlement, where the views of the port and town are outstanding.

In Bordighera , head to the Città Alta, a compact former borgo crisscrossed with centuries-old caruggi, where you’ll find small shops and restaurants offering sea-centric Bordighera cuisine. Imperia was a comune created in 1923, uniting the towns of Oneglia and Porto Maurizio, along with a cluster of nearby hamlets. Parasio, the centro storico of Porto Maurizio, sits on a promontory and offers diverse architectural styles—medieval, baroque and neoclassical.

The old town in France’s Menton , designated a “Ville d’art et Histoire” in 1991, rises above the Vieux-Port and is a delight to explore, especially the Rue Longue, an ancient street from the 13th century.The piazza outside the landmark Basilica Saint-Michael has commanding views of the area. It is also where the annual Menton Music Festival is held.

A sidewalk cafe in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

In the Roquebrune part of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin , you’ll find the vieille ville with a 10th-century castle and various spots providing expansive panoramas. Coco Chanel, who helped popularize the French Riviera as a summer destination, had a villa here; it was also a favorite vacation stop of Winston Churchill.

Take in the art and architecture

Musée Matisse in Nice.

Painters, writers and musicians have long been attracted to the extraordinary natural beauty of the French and Italian Rivieras, settling in for both short and long stays (Matisse spent nearly three decades in Nice). Museums along the coast commemorate the works of the most famous maestros who came here, like the Musée Picasso in Antibes (the artist painted in a studio in the town’s former Grimaldi Castle), the Musée Matisse and the Musée National Marc Chagall , both in Nice. In Menton there’s a museum devoted to the work of Jean Cocteau , the polymath author, film director and artist.

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

Sanremo's casino.

The area offers many architectural treasures as well. Blossoming as winter resorts in the 19th century, French and Italian coastal towns enjoyed a building boom, when villas and grand hotels were built in various Belle Epoque styles. You can see these lavish structures in Sanremo (the casino and villas located along the Corso degli Inglesi ); Bordighera (the Villa Etelinda and Villa Regina Margherita , owned by a queen of Italy); and many splendid period properties in Menton, where hotels from the fin-de-siècle era, like the Grand Hôtel des Ambassadeurs and Le Royal Westminster , are still in operation. Of course, there’s more Belle Epoque splendor in nearby Monte Carlo at the luxe Hotel Hermitage and Hotel de Paris, and the elaborate casino designed by Charles Garnier. Also not to miss: the Villa et Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild , a grand palace and monument historique surrounded by lavish, themed gardens, built for Béatrice de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

See the scenic hill towns

Cervo in Liguria.

Italy and France are famous for their lovely hill towns, but if you’re seeking lesser-known locales with not only sweeping views of rural splendor, but the seaside as well, there are a number of medieval villages along the Riviera di Fiori and in the pays Mentonnais (the Menton countryside) to seek out.

Italy’s Cervo is only 66 meters high, but that’s more than enough height to take in the coastal scenics. In this town, tiers of pastel buildings reach all the way to the sea, where you’ll happen upon a swath of sandy beach. The town is also noted for its castle, exquisite Baroque church and sea promenade.

Seborga , about a half-hour drive from Bordighera, commands views of the French and Italian Rivieras, all the way to Monaco. This village comes with an unusual history, having proclaimed itself an independent principality in recent decades (although not recognized by Italy), with an elected prince or princess, and locally minted currency and stamps.

Perinaldo, also 30 minutes from Bordighera, is known for its artichokes, olive oil, and prominent astronomers (native son, Giovanni Cassini, discovered four of Saturn’s satellite moons). There’s a noted astronomical observatory named after Cassini in the town hall. (Cervo, Seborga and Perinaldo are listed among I Borghi più belli d’Italia .)

Sainte-Agnès, near Menton, is ranked as the highest coastal village in Europe.

Across the border in the Alpes-Maritimes, there are several hamlets on high, les villages perchés of the pays Mentonnais. Castellar lies closest to Italy, with stunning views of Menton’s Bay of Garavan and an historic center with building facades painted in citrus colors. In spring the area blossoms with a profusion of peonies.

To the west of Castellar, Sainte-Agnès , at 800 meters, is ranked as the highest village in coastal Europe and as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Gorbio , home to a chateau still inhabited by the family that has owned it since the 17th century, lies to the south. ( Note : All three towns are about a 20-to-25-minute drive from Mention. Access to many hilltop villages in mountainous regions in Italy and France often involves driving steep, narrow and winding roads. Travel cautiously and only in good weather with experienced drivers.)

A beach in Sanremo.

The seafront in Menton.

Relax at the beaches

On both sides of the border you’ll find a variety of places to soak up the sun or take a swim. In Italy, those who like sandy beaches can head to the small towns of Arma di Taggia and San Lorenzo al Mare or the major resort, Sanremo , which has sections of sandy coast. Bordighera offers a beautiful expanse of pebbly beach with many lidos and seaside restaurants. La Spiagetta dei Balzi Rossi is a famous beach near the Balzi Rossi archaeological site with pebbly terrain and translucent waters.

Menton has sandy beaches flanking the lungomare leading to the Old Port, and a more pebbly mix along the coast adjacent to the Promenade du Soleil; both areas are lined with restaurants, clubs and private and public beaches (which fill up early on weekends in peak season). In Roquebrune-Cap-Martin you’ll come across beautiful pebbly beaches like the Plage de Carnolès, Plage du Buse, and Plage du Golfe Bleu.

Savor the coastal cooking

An Italian fish stew.

Sardenaira.

Although part of the same kingdom for centuries (the Côte d’Azur was annexed to France in 1860), the French and Italian Rivieras developed local cuisines. But even today there are many similarities, for example, Liguria’s ubiquitous pesto has a culinary cousin in France called pistou (although made without cheese or pine nuts; sometimes almonds are added). The French fish stews bouillabaise and bourride have an Italian counterpart in burrida. The Rivieras produce their own forms of pizza-like dishes—try sardenaira, made with tomatoes, anchovies and olives when you’re visiting towns in Imperia, like Sanremo. Order pissaladière, with caramelized onions, olives and anchovies along the Cote d’Azur. Wherever you land it won’t be hard to eat well.

Pissaladière with anchovies, olives and onions.

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Local Flavor: where to eat and drink in Lyon, France

May 29, 2024 • 5 min read

Enjoy the exceptional flavors of Lyon ( like these strawberry buns from La Faute aux Ours) with this local's guide of what to eat and where © La Faute aux Ours

Oddly, it wasn’t the food that drew me to Lyon .

Stringy innards served in traditional bistros called  bouchons never did it for me, but when you get past this and discover Lyon’s fusion food, vegetarian fare, street food and haute cuisine, it’s difficult to find a city to match it. 

A brief history lesson: Lyon’s reputation for great food comes from clever marketing, a dose of luck, and women. In 1900, the Michelin brothers, who made tires in Clermont-Ferrand , wanted a way to up their sales. They came up with the idea to publish a motorist’s guidebook to France, including road maps, restaurants and hotels, to encourage people to drive more. More motorists = more tire sales. 

Lyon, squarely on the route between Paris and Nice , began to see more and more footfall. The (largely women-run) bouchons that had hitherto passed under the radar began to attract tourists and restaurant critics alike. In 1933, a former farm girl from l’Ain, now a single mother who’d worked her way up the ranks in service and bouchon kitchens, became the first person ever to be awarded six Michelin stars. And while it’s Paul Bocuse’s name splashed across markets and restaurants all over the city, it was six-starred Eugénie Brazier who trained him. 

Fast-forward over 90 years, and many bouchons have changed little since Brazier’s time, except to inflate their prices. Lyon’s culinary scene has had another stroke of luck, though. With the reputation for great food already in place, young chefs looking for cheaper digs than Paris flock here. It means the restaurant scene is varied and innovative, and if mealtimes are religious elsewhere in France, they’re gospel here.

Here’s what I eat in Lyon…

Croissants are a sugary sweet start to the day, but Lyon’s breakfast specialty is even more indulgent: pink praline brioche. No one quite knows how the praline first came to be pink, but the nutty, sticky praline the color of bubblegum in buttery brioche, is heaven. Pralus’s sharing-sized brioches deservedly make you the most popular guest at a party, but if you’re looking for something snack-sized, head to Antoinette Pain & Brioche . There’s a fusion twist on every dish in Lyon, and this one’s in the form of a pink praline babka from My Little Babka . I’m British, so sometimes I can’t resist a savory brunch. Hands down, the best are the breakfast croques from  Le Desjeuneur in Croix-Rousse, served daily.

If you drink your coffee black, pretty much anywhere will serve you a decent espresso for little more than a euro. Un Brin de Folie has good coffee, but I love it for the atmosphere. Inside a florist’s shop, you feel positively oxygenated going there, and it runs wreath-making workshops on-site too. Flat whites are hard to come by, and the best I’ve found is at Grimpeurs , a bike shop-cum-cafe, but it doesn’t come cheap. ¸s hot chocolate, infused with warming spices, is to die for.

Grab-and-go fare instantly marks you out as a tourist in France, but some of the street food is too good to resist:  Toke ’s quirky empanadas, for example, with fillings like moussaka and palak paneer, or La Coquetterie ’s overflowing gyros, where music blasts from a vinyl record player as you wait. 

Food Traboule is one institution that everyone knows, but I still can’t get enough of it. A food court with 12 different types of cuisine, it’s hidden in the traboules (covered passageways) that characterize the old part of the city. A victim of its success, the queue sometimes snakes along the street, so I like to go for a mid-week lunch when it’s not too busy.

Lyon has 21 Michelin-starred restaurants, and although this is by no means where I’d regularly eat, it would be remiss of me not to mention my favorite. Jérémy Galvan ’s eight-course lunch menu is a full sensory experience, where you’re invited to put on headphones for certain courses and often have no idea what you’re eating.

My apéro (pre-dinner drink) spot changes with the season. As soon as the days lengthen, I celebrate with an Aperol Spritz on the Opéra’s roof bar, Les Muses . It’s open from 6pm Wednesday to Sunday, and you can be nosy and look down into the inner courtyard of the Hôtel de Ville. West-facing, the views of the sunset behind Fourvière Basilica are really special. Velcroc is my current favorite people-watching spot, another cafe-cum-bike repair workshop right by the Rhône with regular early evening live music events.

I can’t stop talking about Ayla , I can’t stop writing about Ayla, I can’t stop thinking about Ayla, but I also can’t tell you what to eat, because it always changes. Just know that it’s Franco-Lebanese and even the most boring vegetables become an explosion of flavor. Although this is France, the crown for best pizzeria is hotly contended in any foodie city. Finding the best pizzeria in Lyon is a job I’ve taken very seriously, and the undisputed champion is Vico Pizzzza in the 2ème. The dough-to-sauce ratio is perfect. It’s tiny, book in advance. For a treat dinner, try Alebrije ’s Franco-Mexican tasting menu. Chef Carla Kirsch Lopez somehow runs the kitchen and finds time to serve several dishes and chat with guests too. Drink multiple margaritas.

When I first came to Lyon, I was a student and we’d dance until the small hours at  Le Sirius   péniche (live-aboard narrowboat) bar. It’s amazing that, 11 years on, this is still a reliably good spot, although it still prioritizes vibes over cleanliness. Another spot for a boogie, La Faute aux Ours , is busy regardless of the day of the week. The decor is a weird and wonderful mix of your grandparents’ best china and outsized dildos.  La Cave des Dominicains (Friday evenings only), may be the cheapest place to drink in the city. Run by monks in the cellars of their convent, the evening winds down with prayers for the pie-eyed students that frequent the bar.

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