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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.

Mont Saint-Michel

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

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). Not to mention, Paris offers unparalleled dining and shopping scenes and 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.

The capital of the Alsace region offers the perfect mix of French and German culture thanks to its location 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 during their visit, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. For an extra dose of charm, arrive in December to see one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets.

Rising above the sea like a castle in a fairy tale, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is one of France's most-visited sights. Legend says the archangel Michael, the island's namesake, repeatedly appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches in dreams, telling him to build a church on top of the island in A.D. 708. Since its completion, it has become an important pilgrimage site for Christians and European intellectuals. Visitors can tour the picturesque abbey and admire its incredible medieval architecture or wander its surrounding streets, which are lined with tiny shops and quaint cafes.

Dubbed La Ville Rose 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.

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 7 miles from the coast of the Mediterranean, a beach break is 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.

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 for even more charm, 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 challenging) 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 ham) and brocciu (cheese).

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 hundreds of wineries and home to 4,000-plus restaurants, several of which boast Michelin stars, making it especially appealing to oenophiles and foodies.

If you love to ski, chances are you'll enjoy shredding powder at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. In the bustling Chamonix (the main place to stay if you want to ski at Mont Blanc), you'll have easy access to the longest off-piste run 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.

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.

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.

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 the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, and dining on some of its rich cuisine.

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, dive spots and dolphin-spotting opportunities. 

As the capital of France's Champagne region, Reims is a must-visit destination for both history buffs and those who love bubbly. The city offers many Champagne cellars where visitors can learn about how the popular wine is produced before tasting it. Additionally, Reims features breathtaking Gothic architecture at attractions like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame at Reims, where 25 French monarchs were crowned between 1223 and 1825, and the adjacent Palace of Tau, the former residence of France's archbishops. No visit would be complete without perusing the exhibits in one of Reims' museums, which cover a range of topics from war history to art and automobiles.

The gateway to the Loire Valley, Tours is perfectly situated for touring the region's wineries. But with Tours' historical elements and prime location along the Loire River, you may just want to stay in town. Place Plumereau, a medieval marketplace that remains one of the city's oldest squares, exudes irresistible charm with half-timbered houses, while churches like the Saint-Gatien Cathedral stun with their stately façades. Visitors will also have their pick of green spaces, from parks like Prébendes d’Oé Garden to riverside guinguettes (open-air cafes) at Tours sur Loire. What's more, several of the region's famed châteaux (including the Château de Villandry) sit just outside the city.

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.

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.

Located on the French Riviera just 8 miles from Nice, the tiny hilltop village of Èze makes for an excellent daytrip. 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.

Located 35 miles northeast of Montpellier, Nîmes delights history buffs with some of the world's best-preserved Roman treasures like its emblematic arena and La Maison Carrée, a temple dating back to 10 B.C. Museums throughout Nîmes also cover its past. But lest you get the wrong impression, Nîmes is anything but stuffy. The city embraces the joie de vivre of the South of France with countless festivals, from structured events like the concert lineups of the Festival de Nîmes to lively Ferias de Nîmes – multi-day celebrations that occur twice a year at Pentecost and in September, and center around bullfighting, dancing and music.

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 secluded 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.

Famous for its annual film festival in May, Cannes is just as impressive (and much less congested) 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 2-mile-long promenade, or sit down for an exquisite meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Feeling lucky? Stop by one of Cannes' casinos.

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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.

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📍 The best   things to do in France 🌳 The prettiest   villages in France 🏖 The best   beaches in France 🏰 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 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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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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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.

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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.

Adam Turner

CNT Editors

Rachel Everett

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.

Like this? Now read:

The prettiest villages in France

The best beaches in France

8 beautiful road trips in France

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Where to go in France: the ultimate guide on the 29 best places to see other than Paris

Do you want to see more than the Eiffel Tower when you go to France? Read our detailed guide about where to go in France, including a summary of the regions and a list of some of the best places to visit.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Jun 12, 2023

France is an incredibly diverse and beautiful country in Western Europe . It is one of the most popular tourist destinations around the world , though much of the country remains traditional and free from heavy tourism.

On any France itinerary, you will most likely stop in Paris. 

Paris , the capital city of France, known as the city of love, is home to world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc Du Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, and more. But there is so much more to France outside of this iconic metropolis. 

Enjoy sipping coffee in outdoor cafes, strolling along the Seine River , and taking day trips to places like the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Palace of Versailles . And definitely tour the Louvre Museum , one of the world’s most famous art museums, and see many works by Leonardo Da Vinci, including the Mona Lisa .

But this article will explore where to go in France besides Paris! F rom the peaks of the Alps to the castles and vineyards of the countryside, to the beaches of the French Riviera , there are so many amazing places to visit in France.

And whether you’re interested in food and wine, skiing and snowboarding, nature, and hiking, or history, culture , and art, France has it all.

Trying to plan a trip to France can be overwhelming as there are so many different regions, cities, and small towns. There is a wide variety of landscapes as well. We’ll start with an overview of some of the best regions in France. It would take a long time to fully dissect all the different areas of this country, but we can provide a general overview of some of the highlights.

We’ll also explain how work exchanges in France work, for those who want an extra immersive cultural experience . And we’ll provide some links to interesting work exchanges in different areas of the country.

Let’s get it started!

Where to go in France besides Paris?

France is a relatively large European country that is split into many different regions and subregions. There are metropolitan regions and geographical regions, and many would disagree on how many actual regions there are in France.

For the purpose of this article about where to go in France, I’ll just mention a few of the most popular regions of France. These are some beautiful spots that attract tourists from around the world!

Though Paris is the most famous location in France, we want to highlight the other gorgeous spots in France. Paris is a convenient spot to start any France itinerary , as there are lots of international flights that head into Paris, but once you have seen the top sights in Paris, make sure you venture out to explore more of these regions.

Though there are many more areas of France to visit besides these regions listed, this is just a basic overview of the country and where travelers might like to visit. Hopefully, this gives you some inspiration for your France itinerary and gives you insight into where to go in France.

1. Bordeaux

This region is the wine capital of France , and it attracts wine connoisseurs and foodies from all over the world. Bordeaux offers culinary delights and some of the world's best wines. Famous grapes like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc originated here, and there are lots of wine-related events in the region.

Bordeaux is also the name of the region’s capital city, but there is a lot to see and do outside the city. There are plenty of castles, vineyards, wine festivals, small towns, historic monuments such as the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, and local markets to see in this area of France near the Atlantic Coast.

The charming and historic region of Alsace is another one of the best places to visit in France. 

Located next to Germany and Switzerland , and located on the upper Rhine River, Alsace is a melting pot of European cultures . Including beautiful villages, the incredible city of Strasbourg, and German influences, there is amazing architecture, food, and wine in Alsace.

Strasbourg is a charming city on the Rhine River and is the capital city of the Alsace region. Its most famous landmark is the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame , though it’s the scenic canals, colorful houses, and picturesque streets that give Strasbourg its charm.

3. Brittany

Anyone wondering where to go in France should definitely head to the northwest and visit Brittany . This region is known for its Celtic roots , and you can find many British-style villages.

Brittany is also located on the Atlantic Coast, and there is dramatic, natural coastal scenery here including remnants of prehistoric times . Popular villages in the region include Lannion, Saint-Malo, and Nantes, and there are lots of beaches, historic seaports, and offshore islands as well.

Nantes is a historic city that is full of culture and beauty . Often referred to as one of the greenest cities in France, Nantes has lots of parks and gardens next to its museums and historic buildings. 

Be sure to check out the Medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne, where the Dukes of Brittany used to live.

5. Dordogne Valley

Located in Southwestern France, the Dordogne Valley is the duck and truffle capital of France , so treat yourself to some gourmet local cuisine while you’re here.

Full of medieval towns, delicious food, and impressive castles,  it’s not super touristy, but travelers love exploring the historic and traditional towns like Martel, Sarlat, Issigeac, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rocamadour.  

The Castle of Rocamadour is definitely a highlight, a place you should see no matter what. Full of religious buildings and historic statues , such as the one of the Blessed Virgin Mary , it's a place to feel at peace and connect with your beliefs. 

Sarlat is one of the most beautiful small villages to visit. There are historic buildings, public squares lined with local cafes, and a relaxing, authentic atmosphere.

You can even volunteer with locals in the Dordogne Valley! Help with gardening and renovations at this local farm . With just 5 hours of work per day, you get free accommodation and plenty of free time to go exploring the city.

6. Loire Valley

Another gorgeous region of France is the Loire Valley. Though this area doesn’t have many big, well-known cities, it’s most famous for its charming small towns, cycling routes, and extravagant chateaus, castles, and homes.  

People head to the Loire Valley to explore France’s scenic countryside and dive into its cultural heritage . You can find vineyards, castles, adorable local towns, and more.

7. Normandy

This region in northern France is mostly well-known for its history. Many historic landmarks and sites reside in Normany, including the D-Day Landing: Omaha Beach site and the famous hilltop abbey: Mont Saint-Michel.

The image of Mont Saint-Michel is legendary: a Gothic-style abbey sitting atop a rocky outcrop on an island off of France’s northern coast. The abbey was constructed sometime in the 16th Century and served as a sanctuary for some of the greatest minds in Europe throughout history.

Aside from many more historic churches, monuments, and statues, Normany is also known for its coastal beauty. You can find chalky white cliffs, stunning seaside resorts, and peaceful beaches.

8. Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpe Region of southeast-central France has a little bit of everything. 

In the southern part of the region, the climate is more coastal and there are lots of canyons and hills. The center, west, and north of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpe have more vineyards, castles, and orchards.  In the eastern part of the region, you’ll find a more alpine climate with dramatic mountains. Natural beauty thrives throughout the region.

There are also big cities like Lyon, small local villages, and mountain resorts. The region is also a foodie’s paradise, and there are lots of delicious local meat dishes and soups.

9. French Alps

Though the French Alps are technically part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes région, I listed them as their own area because they are so special and arguably one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Any outdoorsy travelers who are wondering where to go in France, add the French Alps to your France itinerary!

Here you can find the impressive peak of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. Aside from mountains that are ideal for skiing and snowboarding, you can also explore lakes, waterfalls, rivers, valleys, and forests , all of which are great for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, camping, and more.

10. Burgundy

Located in east-central France, Burgundy is a region famous for its wines such as Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. 

In addition to wine, Burgundy is also known for its history, art, and culture . Dijon is the capital city of the region and is home to some incredible historic palaces and art galleries. There are also lots of farms, lakes, and forests scattered throughout the region.

11. Provence

Provence is a large region in the south of the country that encompasses many highlights of the country. Home to the city of Marseilles, many hilltop villages, and gorgeous stretches of farms and lavender fields , this is a great place to sightsee in the French countryside.

Provence is home to the Côte d'Azur, which is also referred to as the French Riviera . Here you can find popular beach resort towns like Biarritz and Cannes.

12. Saint-Tropez 

Saint-Tropez is a glamorous resort town on the French Riviera and it's definitely the perfect place to treat yourself to a ritzy holiday. 

Though it’s expensive, Saint-Tropez has exquisite beaches, delicious fresh seafood, and a thriving nightlife. There is always something fun going on in Saint-Tropez, and the views of the Mediterranean are incredible. 

This stunning city on the French Riviera is another one of the best places to visit in France. 

Check out the Old Town, sunbathe on the beach, walk the oceanfront promenades, and indulge in some delicious Southern French street food . If you’re into art and history, visit the Musée Matisse, an art museum dedicated to the famous painter.

Those looking to see some natural beauty on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea should head to Cassis. This fishing port in southern France has lovely beaches, walking trails, vineyards, and historic chateaux. It is also near Calanques National Park, where you can go hiking in nature.

There is a cool work exchange opportunity near Cassis : helping with housekeeping and gardening for a local family-run guesthouse. 

15. Antibes

History lovers wondering where to go in the South of France should include Antibes in their France itinerary. 

This city on the French Riviera has the quintessential Mediterranean beaches , but it also has an impressive Medieval Quarter and the famous Picasso Museum . Nature lovers can embark on the beautiful coastal walk known as Chemin des Douaniers.

16. Avignon

Another remarkable spot in the South of France is Avignon. Surrounded by historic city walls and ramparts, this town feels like a living history museum . 

Be sure to check out the 14th Century Palais des Papes, which is the largest Gothic palace in Europe .

This beautiful city in northern France near the border with Belgium is not too far from Paris. So those wondering where to go in France besides Paris, you can take a trip north to Lille! Check out the scenic Old Town full of museums and local markets .

Also look out for the impressive ​​17th-century Citadel, and the Braderie de Lille, which is the biggest flea market in Europe.

18. Montgenèvre

This charming ski town near the Italian Border is one of the best places to base yourself for a visit to the French Alps. 

There is some incredible skiing to be done here, as well as lots of cozy mountain resorts where you can relax after a day on the slopes.

19. Marseille

Often referred to as the Oldest City in France, Marseille is one of the best places to visit on the Mediterranean Coast. 

With historic basilicas and important seaports , this city near the mouth of the Rhône River has served as a hub for trade and commerce throughout history. The city dates back to ancient times, and nowadays it is one of France’s largest port cities.

20. Lyon 

One of France’s largest and most amazing cities is Lyon. Though the history of Lyon dates back 2,000 years, all the way to Roman times, the city is very modern and exciting nowadays. 

The nightlife is incredible and there are often music festivals and events . The city is also home to an Old Town, as well as sights that reflect its history such as the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules.

For a cool cultural experience, try a work exchange out in the countryside near Lyon . You can help out at a local guesthouse by helping with painting and gardening.

21. Chamonix

One of the highest towns in France, Chamonix is another one of the most gorgeous places in the country. Located high in the French Alps, this town is situated near the borders of Switzerland and Italy.

This is the best place to base yourself for a visit to Mont Blanc, as the town sits right at the base of the mountain. When you’re not skiing or hiking, you can ride the cable cars up into the mountains and enjoy the most breathtaking views of the French Alps.

This city on the French Riviera is most famous for the Cannes Film Festival, where movie stars and celebrities from all over the world congregate for a night of celebrating the best performances in film.

The affluence and luxury from the festival linger year-round. Cannes is very much an expensive, high-end destination full of fancy hotels and resorts. But if you have some money to spend, a visit here is worth it. The beaches are gorgeous and you can take day trips to various islands in the Mediterranean.

23. Giverny

Located in Normandy, Giverny is a romantic French village that is most well known for being the residence of the famous painter, Claude Monet . You can tour his residence and the surrounding gardens, as well as visit other art museums. 

In the summer months, Giverny is a dream. All the flowers are in bloom and the village erupts in natural colors and greenery.

This scenic Alsace town sits near the base of the southern Vosges Mountains and is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in France. It’s located in the heart of the Alsace wine region, so there is lots of delicious food and wine here.

With an adorable Old Town full of colorful and traditional architecture, Colmar is a photographer’s paradise. Check out all the historic monuments, cathedrals, and museums , and begin your journey in the heart of the Old Town: the Place de la Cathédrale.

This city in Northeastern France is the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing region . If you haven’t had enough wine tasting in France yet, here you taste some of the world’s best sparkling white wines . 

Other things to do in Reims besides wine tasting include visiting some incredible museums and the Reims-Gueux Formula 1 circuit , which formerly hosted the French Grand Prix Formula 1 motor racing competition.

As the capital of the Burgundy region of eastern France, Dijon is another one of the best places to visit in France. You may recognize the name of the city for one of its most famous products: Dijon Mustard.

The area is also famous for gingerbread, and of course, wine. Vineyard tours are one of the top activities from Dijon, as are visits to the local museums, food festivals, and palaces.

27. Aix-en-Provence

This beautiful city used to be the capital of the Provence region, and many say that the city summarizes all the best parts of the region. 

With landscapes that look like they are straight out of an Impressionist painting, as well as lavender fields, charming towns, and eateries with authentic local food and wine , Aix-en-Provence has it all. You can even drive to the seaside or the mountains in just a few hours.

The mountain town of Annecy is a stunning village in southeastern France. 

Located near the lakes and mountains of the French Alps, this charming local town is perfect for those who want to explore nature. Year-round, the town is a gorgeous place to visit. The cobblestone streets and quaint, colorful buildings of the Old Town showcase the best of French architecture and charm.

29. Carcassonne

Last but not least on this list of the best places to visit in France is ​​Carcassonne. This walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is most known for its La Cité, which is like an Old Town.

This historic center has impressive cathedrals and monuments, all of which are surrounded by medieval fortified walls . The lower part of town, the Bastide Saint-Louis area, is home to more modern shops and cafés.

Work Exchanges in France

While traveling through France, a great way to learn about the local culture and save money on accommodation is through a Worldpackers work exchange .

When you do a work exchange, you can live with locals and immerse yourself in their way of life. Living with French people is the best way to learn French as well!

And you are working for accommodation , so you can save money and enjoy a free place to stay. Often you get valuable work experience and you can learn useful life skills.

If you’re wondering where to go in France to really immerse yourself in the culture, work exchanges are incredible. Popular types of work exchanges include helping out at a local, family-run guesthouse or volunteering on a farm or eco-program.

Whether you want to live with a French family or work with your hands out in nature, there are lots of cool opportunities.

There are 80 Worldpackers work exchanges in France . Here are some great examples of work exchanges that you can find around the country.

• Guest house in Loire Valley - Volunteer at an authentic 19th Century French home
• Homestay in Normandy - Help out in the garden and care for rescue animals at this homestay in Normandy. 
• Holistic Center in Southern France - Help with gardening and farming at this vegan-friendly eco-program. 
• Artist retreat in Northern France - Work as a web developed in the small commune of Quesnoy-le-Montant at an interactive artist's retreat
• Homestay in Northern France - Help out with gardening and other daily tasks and learn about the French lifestyle and culture
• Local project in Central France - Help build a medieval Gothic edifice among local and international volunteers 

There are many more work exchanges to check out. Browse the Worldpackers website to find the perfect work exchange for you!

Thanks for reading about where to go in France!

Hopefully, this summary of the country has given you an idea about where you’d like to visit. There are so many stunning regions of France, from the lavender fields of Provence to the beaches of Normandy and the adorable villages of Brittany or Alsace.

There are also lots of cosmopolitan cities in France such as the famous Paris, the exciting Lyon, and the ancient Marseille.

And be sure to check out the Worldpackers work exchanges in France so you can have a local experience and save money on accommodation.

• Want to learn more about planning your trip? By subscribing to the WP pack plan you have unlimited access to +120 courses at Worldpackers Academy, the travel school made by travelers! 

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Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Dec 26, 2022

J,aime Paris

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Je n'ai pas partir en France mais j'aime France

Dec 27, 2022

Beautiful ❤️

Apr 04, 2023

Great article! France truly is a country that everyone should have on their travel bucket list. The art, culture, cuisine, and architecture are all mesmerizing, making it one of the most visited cities globally. Your article highlights the top reasons to visit Paris. I also recommend checking out the blog which provides insightful information on attractions, culture and destinations, in France . Thanks for sharing this amazing article! The blog link: https://f0od-f0r-y0u.000webhostapp.com/2023/04/most-visited-country-in-the-world

Apr 09, 2023

Je suis intéressé 🤍

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17 Best Places to Visit in France

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on March 3, 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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Top 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 at the heart of the Provence region). You’ll find the most stereotypical scenery of rural Provence – 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 a World Heritage site status.

One of the most visited regions in the country, it’s known for its large collection of fairytale-esque chateaus and mansions, exceptionally beautiful 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 wonderful 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 of Germany and France, and it is a popular stop-off before exploring Luxembourg and Belgium .

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

It’s a picturesque and romantic place with an energic buzz and 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 fishing, boating, or 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, wonderful scenery, delicious food, and a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere.

Along Brittany’s coastline, there 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 amazing 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.

Its many narrow, winding streets and ancient buildings enhance the city’s 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 is difficult 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 obvious, with huge 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. It has a high viewing platform that 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. Wonderful 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 obvious.

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 “Top 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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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in France

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 .

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Places to Visit in France

15 Best Places to Visit in France

Ah France: a land of sleepy country towns and pungent cheeses, romance and wine, the moneyed Riviera and the soaring snow fields of the Alps.

It’s hard not to fall in love with this indelibly beautiful country, where Paris bursts with art and Nice is trodden by fashionistas. Here, we take a look at the top French destinations every traveler should have on their bucket list.

Lets explore the best places to visit in France :

The legendary City of Love and City of Light, home of the Louvre, towering Montmartre, the Latin Quarter where Hemingway rubbed shoulders with Ginsberg, the winding Seine, Notre Dame and the iconic silhouette of the Eifel Tower, Paris is a city that surely needs no introduction.

For travelers heading to France for the first time, it’s likely that this sprawling and mythic capital will be on the menu. Rarely does it disappoint. No sir, not with all those aromatic wine bars, elegant Versailles, the prestigious Arc de Triomphe, uber-luxurious Champs-Elysees, the haunting sepulchres of Pere Lachaise (Jim Morrison et al), the totemic buildings of the Ile de la Cite, the al fresco coffee joints along St-Martin – the list goes on. And on!

2. Porquerolles

Sparkling like a pearl betwixt the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the bowl-shaped island of Porquerolles remains one of the lesser-known jewels of the Cote d’Azur. Cars cannot cross over from the mainland, and there are no tarmacked roads to be found, meaning transport between the various secluded coves and rocky inlets, arches of ivory-white sand and charming port towns is left solely to clicking bicycles.

These rumble over rocky tracks and through blooming sunflower fields around the centre of the island, allowing travelers to glimpse the woods of Spanish fir and the swaying coastal pines, smell the eucalyptus and myrtle and enjoy pure seclusion as they flit between the various postcard beaches that abound.

3. Marseille

The grand old dame of Marseille comes filled with confidence, history and panache. It’s considered one of the oldest cities in all of Europe, was shaped by the Greeks, the Romans, Anjou Dukes, Provencal nobility and the French imperialists alike, played hosts to Dumas’ famous Count of Monte Christo and now rises as the second-largest metropolis in all of France.

It bursts dramatically out from the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, beset by rugged calanque cliffs and home to arguably the most iconic port district on the continent: Vieux Port. This is the beating, earthy middle of the town, which sits watched over by the Byzantine faces of the Notre Dame de la Garde on the hill, hosts countless maritime museums and abuts the beautiful Le Panier neighbourhood – the oldest and most enthralling in the city.

There are few cities in Europe more historically imbued than old Lyon . Tagged by UNESCO and bursting at the seams with everything from Roman amphitheatres to Renaissance palazzos, this one is unquestionably one of France’s must-see metropolises. Travelers should begin with a jaunt through Vieux Lyon, clustering on the Saone in a glorious display of 15th and 16th century builds: the beautiful Traboules; the gilded St Jean Cathedral.

High above rises Fourviere hill, its colossal Christian buildings displaying a wealth of Gothic and Byzantine art, while Presqu’ile throbs with coffee shops, high-fashion boutiques and opera houses in the middle of the dual river ways. Meanwhile, Roman relics abound in Croix-Rousse, and monuments to the city’s much-loved Lumieres pepper the street corners all around.

5. Strasbourg

Well-to-do Strasbourg may not seem French at first glance, with its Germanic homes and Rhineland-style half-timbered buildings from centuries gone by. But this richly-endowed city on the very cusp of Alsace makes for a curious mixture of cultures like no other in the country, booming with Gewurtztraminer and Reisling wines, Kronenbourg brews, choucroute cabbage platters and more handsome Alsatian streets than you can shake a flammekuche pizza bread at.

Tourists tend to flock to the impossibly pretty Petite France district, where winding cobbled lanes meet wood studded townhouses and blooming baskets of rhododendron cascade down the edges of canals. And on the newer side of town, the European Parliament and court rooms showcase this city’s uber-modern and politically important side.

Set just back from the sparkling waters of the Cote d’Azur, delightful little Gassin makes its home on the soft hillsides that rise between Saint Tropez and Saint Maxime – the two jet setter enclaves of the French Riviera. Hailed by many as the most beautiful village in the country, its labyrinth of tight-knit streets comes dressed in blooms of bougainvillea, concealing hidden staircases and archways.

The homes are clad in ivy and shuttered with Mediterranean-blue windows, while the string of al fresco bistros and cafes that line the central drag offer up sweeping views of La Croix Valmer, the coast and the looming town ramparts – themselves a relic of when the Moors held sway in southern France.

7. The Loire Valley

The beloved Garden of France stretches its way right through the heartlands of the nation for a length of more than 280 kilometers. A land of rolling vineyards and manicured wineries, Sancerre reds and Muscadet whites, it unfolds gloriously from the edges of the winding Loire River. And while the undulating hills and grass-come-sunflower patchwork of the backcountry is truly wonderful to behold and explore (best by bike), it’s the Loire’s human history that has cemented it in the lists of UNESCO.

This manifests in glorious Chateaux and hilltop castles, like the Gothic colossus at Amboise – the onetime home of the French kings – and the elaborate medievalism of the Chateau de Chambord to name just two of the many sites.

Off-the-beaten track Arras sits midway between the port town of Calais and the bustling metropolis of Paris. Steeped in history, it draws huge crowds right throughout the year with its palimpsest of historical treats; the result of centuries of ancient and medieval strife that saw Arras flit from Roman control to the Dukes of Flanders, Burgundy, the Spanish Habsburgs and French monarchy.

The jewel in the crown is the UNESCO-attested Gothic belfry in the centre of the city, which rises high above the cobbled squares and Flemish apses of the townhouses. Meanwhile, the iconic Boves extend below the city, representing one of the most extensive urban subterranean systems in Europe.

9. The Beaches of Normandy

The beaches of Normandy are now synonymous with the tumultuous conflicts of 1944. Today, and travelers making their way to this northern region’s string of chalk-cliff-backed sands and undulating dunes can opt to tour the iconic battlefields that were the main contact point on D-Day, flitting between looming memorials to the fallen on Omaha Beach and the remnants of the gun batteries and cement bunkers of the infamous Atlantic Wall.

However, Normandy isn’t consumed entirely by its dark past. No sir, majestic medieval cathedrals stand tall in the English Channel at Mont Saint-Michel, pretty Cistercian abbeys dot the landscapes and the winding Seine offers a walker’s paradise in the south.

10. Chamonix

Set deep in the French Alps, where the chiselled tops and ice-capped summits of mighty Mont Blanc (the highest mountain in Europe outside of the Caucuses) peaks to a formidable 4,800 meters above sea level, Chamonix remains an icon for Alpinists, skiers, boarders and adventure travelers the world over. Host of the first ever Winter Olympics, the resort town now boasts a whopping 760 acres of skiable terrain, along with some of the best off-piste riding in the world (guides are a must!).

The town is shrouded by the massif above, and travels can hop the Aiguille du Midi cable car to the top for some of the most breathtaking views in the Alps. Others will linger below, where luxury spa hotels and cafes now abound between the fashion boutiques.

11. Corsica

A teardrop in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Corsica’s cliffs rise like a Greek phalanx against the Mediterranean waves. Rugged and unspoilt, this is a land beset by mountains and cliffs, rolling from ivory-white pebble beaches to the precipitous inland hills. Once a Greek colony, then a part of the Roman Empire and under the medieval hegemony of Italian dynasties, it’s hardly surprising that Corsica has a character apart from the rest of France.

Olive groves fill the backcountry, curious Latin-esque folk music issues from the tavernas, Tuscan citadels rise formidably in Bonifacio. Yet for all that, this is still the island that gave the world Napoleon, who was born here in Ajaccio in 1769.

Sprawled out just on the cusp of the Low Countries and the Flemish half of Belgium, Lille fuses several of the cultural strands of northern Europe in one seriously engaging and energetic metropolis. Since the industrial revolution, the town has garnered something of a reputation as one of France’s grimy, working hubs, although that’s now given way to a confident modernism that flows through the Flemish streets of the city centre with panache.

Add to that a fine Beaux-Arts museum, a huge crowd of resident students (ergo one hedonistic nightlife scene) and a clutch of Belgian-inspired chocolatiers and waffle stalls, and Lille really is worth the visit!

A jewel of the Languedoc-Roussillon, Nimes sits sandwiched between the rugged gorges of the Cevennes range and the sparkling beaches of the Med. Immediately visible is the great Roman amphitheatre at the town’s heart – the best preserved in all of France. Below, in the shadow of the great apses of the 1st century megastructure, the colonnades of the Maison Carree continue the Roman theme, while the Pont du Gard on the edge of town is nothing short of a photographer’s dream!

Today and this kingpin of erstwhile Gaul buzzes with marketplaces and al fresco cafes, doing well to balance its overtly historic veneer with just a dash of energy courtesy of the French Riviera to the south.

14. Carcassonne

Looking plucked straight from the pages of Game of Thrones, the Tolkien-esque creation of Carcassonne remains unquestionably one of the most magnificent and astounding medieval citadels in all of Europe. It was raised during the Middle Ages, when this pretty Languedoc draw found itself on the frontier between France and the powers of Aragon.

Today, it comes with a much-deserved UNESCO tag, and conceals a winding old town between its bulwarks. Known as the La Cite, this is awash with medievalist craft shops and countless stone-clad alleyways and streets. What’s more, the bucolic surrounds of the city are home to some of the best Vins de Pays wineries in France. Just saying!

Enfolded by the summertime beaches of the French Rivera, Nice is much more than just the jet setter town its rows of Ferraris, Porsches and bobbing millionaire yachts make it out to be. For one, its history runs all the way back to the days of pre-Roman Gaul, when the Greeks of Massilia made it one of the biggest trading outposts on the French Med.

Later, influences from Savoy gave the place an Italian charm, while English aristocrats in the 1800s imbued the town with the now-legendary Promenade des Anglais; an arc of sun-splashed, palm-shaded promenade that runs the length of its seaside casinos and bars. Vieux Nice is charming to boot, with its medieval homes, while Cimiez means ancient ruins and Roman relics.

15 Best Places to Visit in France:

• Porquerolles
• The Loire Valley
• The Beaches of Normandy
• Carcassonne

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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.

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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.

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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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10 Best Places to Visit in France – Outside of Paris!

To know France is to love France.  But how do you get to know a country as intricate as France? From the German-influence infiltrating the eastern border, to the Mediterranean flavour of the French Riviera, and the idyllic islands at a tickling distance from the country’s western shores, France is as complex as it is compelling. 

And while most people who visit France land in Paris , you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you ventured no further than the world’s favourite capital.

Sure, spend a few days eyeing up the Iron Lady, sipping café noir in a quintessential curbside bistro, and learning the art of flaneur … But then drive, train or bus to another corner of l’hexagone to discover another world. One that is sure to seduce you with its intoxicating charm and universally appealing lifestyle.

I have absolutely been won over by the diverse nature of France’s landscapes, so today I’m sharing some of my recommendations for the best places to go in France, besides Paris …

Map of the top places to visit in France

France is a fairly large country (by European standards) and for the uninitiated, it can be a little tricky trying to visualise where everything is. The below map plots out our suggestions of places to see in France, so that you can get your bearings easily. Simply click on the markers to reveal each location.

Alsace is a quintessential frontier zone, part of that northern French hinterland that has changed hands between France and Germany so often over the centuries. As may be expected for a place-between-worlds, Alsace has forged its own unique culture and identity, neither totally French, nor completely German, but always, absolutely Alsatian.

This is a region with its own dialect, a rich and distinctive gastronomic culture, and an extremely long history of winemaking: people have been producing wine here since the 2 nd century. The Alsace wine route boasts more than 800 vineyards over a distance of 105 miles and offers a host of treats for lovers of viticulture.

Indeed, the oldest barrel of wine anywhere in the world may be found in a dark cellar beneath the Hospice of Strasbourg. The vintage is 1472, and it has survived the ravages of two world wars and countless fires.

Although they remain rooted in traditional winemaking, the producers of Alsace wines are also industry pioneers, and it was here that some of the first biodynamic vineyards were established.

Throughout the summer, a swathe of festivals and food markets crop up along the wine route, making Alsace an extremely attractive prospect for a summer road trip.

Yet, Alsace has so much more to offer beyond its vineyards and its hearty food culture. The Renaissance streets of Strasbourg and Colmar, with their painted timbered buildings and cobbled paving stones, offer charm in abundance, particularly at Christmas , when they are dressed in lights and filled with festive markets.

Outside the cities and towns, the luscious green landscape is the ideal place to retreat from the world. Stretching from the Rhine to the dramatic hills of the Vosges, the Alsace is a natural treasure, and there’s plenty to keep nature-lovers occupied.

What’s more, this corner of France is castle country , and there are many imposing, impressive reminders of the region’s medieval past in the ruins of Hohlandsbourg and Fleckenstein.

History looms large here, and the region is redolent with memories of the brutal wars and occupations of the 19 th and 20 th centuries. Nevertheless, despite the importance of the past in defining Alsatian culture and identity, this is a forward-looking, optimistic, and utterly unique part of France that will leave you wanting much, much more.

Explore the Alsace region  – Book your tour here

Fiercely independent, with a weighty history and a rugged charm, Normandy is often considered within France as a place apart.

This verdant region takes its name from the Viking conquerors that settled here in the 9 th century (the name itself comes from ‘north men’ in Old Norse), and although the Normans have kept their fearsome reputation, visitors will always find a warm welcome.

With gorgeous beaches , stunning architecture, and some of France’s finest seafood, this is a region with something for everyone. Norman history has always been tied to the sea, from the earliest Viking raids and the conquest of England in 1066, right through to the darkest moments of the Second World War.

Today, some of the vast, expansive beaches of the Norman coast are places of pilgrimage, preserved as a memorial to the many men who lost their lives during the D-Day landings of 1944. 

Long stretches of golden sand, bordered by undulating dunes, also offer plenty of opportunities for summer fun, and families flock here in the summer months to relax, play games and dip a toe in the Channel. The same coastline is home to an abundance of picturesque ports and fishing towns, such as the beautiful Honfleur, arguably the prettiest harbour in the whole of France. This is the place to come for fabulous, fresh seafood, all washed down with a pint of local cider.

The Norman dukes were medieval rockstars, and they left their mark in the shape of castles and cathedrals. The sublime Gothic churches of Rouen, Coutances and Caen are fitting monuments to this glorious past, as is the unique Bayeux tapestry, the first battle narrative to be told entirely in thread.

But the jewel in this region’s crown has to be Mont-Saint-Michel, the iconic abbey perched on a craggy rock high over the shimmering sands of the Couesnon estuary. It’s small wonder that artists and poets alike have found inspiration in this enchanting region; a visit to Giverny, where Monet painted his famous water lilies, is surely enough to see why.

Enjoy this stunning region by booking a day tour from Bayeux

BORDEAUX 

Rivalled only by the Champagne region, Bordeaux is one of France’s most important wine-producing provinces . Home to over 6,000 vineyards, this profuse and fertile region offers some of the world’s finest wines, building on an ancient culture that goes back nearly 2000 years.

The area around Bordeaux is best explored on foot or by bike, and this lush, sun-soaked region certainly won’t disappoint.

The city of Bordeaux is a pleasant destination for a city break, with its wide boulevards, 18th-century architecture, and riverside street culture. The city is a cultural hub, and visitors come here for the exceptional art galleries and museums, and renowned dining scene.

The River Garonne, which snakes through the town centre, has been the focal hub of the city for centuries, transporting goods in and out of the city. It offers an ideal place for an afternoon stroll, lined with attractive cafes and restaurants offering refreshments for weary travellers.

Outside the city, vineyards dominate the landscape, but Saint-Emilion, in the heart of the Bordeaux region, is an attractive spot for a day trip.

This historic medieval village was founded in the 8 th century when a pious hermit named Emilion, made his home in the nearby caves. Over time, the settlement developed into an important religious centre, and it’s possible to get a little closer to this rich history today by exploring the caves underneath the village.

Wine production has been important here ever since King John of England established the Jurade, a wine-makers brotherhood committed to developing the industry in Saint-Emilion.

Over 800 years later, Saint-Emilion still stands as one of the most important wine-producing areas in France. Whether you’re an aficionado of Bordeaux wines or not, this marvellous region has plenty to offer to visitors.

Book a day trip to Saint-Emilion from Bordeaux here.

FRENCH RIVIERA

The French Riviera – summer retreat of the jet-set – immediately conjures images of glamour, sophistication and style. During the summer months, French holidaymakers, along with an international crowd of celebrities and millionaires, flock to the Côte d’Azur, to dangle a toe in the Mediterranean and let their hair down in Monaco, Saint-Tropez , Nice or Cannes .

This is one of France’s most popular holiday destinations, and with good reason: the Côte d’Azur is truly stunning, comprising sandy beaches, vibrant markets, picturesque towns, coastal walking trails, and blazing red cliffs.

Don’t despair if your wallet doesn’t stretch to long nights on the town in the fashionable resorts of St Tropez and Antibes or the casinos of Monte Carlo. There’s more to explore here than many people realise, and this part of the French coastline is a natural paradise, filled with stunning hidden villages, nestled in the mountains that rise up from the sea.

Saint-Paul de Vence, for example, is known for its maze of labyrinthine streets, and vibrant artistic culture. This stunning village offers exceptional views of the coast and is a haven for photographers. Port Grimaud, the Venice of the Riviera, is characterised by its canals, waterways, and vibrantly painted houses.

Finally, Èze, a charming medieval village perched on a high, rocky outcrop, offers the very best of the Côte d’Azur: exotic gardens, a medieval castle, and fabulous views of the Mediterranean. All the way along the coastline, beech forests and gardens of olives cloak the hillsides, making this an excellent spot for hiking or mountain biking.

Come in the quieter months and you’ll enjoy the warm sunshine, empty beaches, and turquoise seas: it’s easy to see why visitors return to the Côte d’Azur again and again.

Explore the villages of the French Riviera with a tour.

Burgundy, known internationally for its rich, full-bodied wines, is one of France’s lesser-visited regions. A trip here is an escape into some of the country’s most idyllic countryside, featuring rolling green hills covered in orderly vineyards, bright, yellow mustard fields, and tranquil canals.

Burgundy’s vineyards are so important they have even been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, in a nod to the richness and diversity of this significant wine-producing region. However, while a vineyard tour should definitely be on the agenda, this beguiling region has plenty of other treats to entice visitors.

Dijon, the regional capital, was once the home of the Burgundian dukes, and their influence may still be felt in the stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture that makes up the city.

The region’s fine produce is always on show here, and the fabulous Friday market at Les Halles is not to be missed, featuring local specialities such as Epoisses cheese, escargots (snails), and of course, the famous beef bourguignon.

Outside the city, the countryside is littered with fabulous medieval monasteries, castles , and some of France’s most beautiful villages. The small, walled town of Beaune, with its cobbled streets, Gothic architecture and labyrinthine wine cellars has charm in abundance. This profuse, laid-back region offers plenty of activities for nature lovers.

This is the place to hire a bike and spend the day weaving through the vineyards or drift lazily through the countryside in a canal boat, admiring the view. For walkers, the magnificent Morvan National Park provides over 1000 square kilometres of unspoilt countryside, filled with lakes , waterfalls , and atmospheric woodland. This is undoubtedly the French countryside at its finest.

Explore Burgundy with a day trip from Beaune or Dijon

LOIRE VALLEY

The Loire is France’s last untamed river, a 1000-mile-long, meandering natural habitat that humans have never quite managed to subdue. This aquatic highway has been left almost undisturbed over the centuries to shape the contours of the land that it flows through, and the Loire Valley, otherwise known as the ‘garden of France’, is the product of its meandering course.

The Loire and its tributaries irrigate this fertile landscape, allowing it to bear some of the finest natural produce that France has to offer. The pace of life here follows the river, slow and relaxed, with seasonal bursts of activity.

A visit to the Loire means two things: wine and castles. The fertile rolling hills of this green region offer perfect conditions for growing grapes, and vineyard tours and wine tastings are on offer wherever you go. The region is also dotted with impressive castles, many of which are set in marvellous gardens, overlooking small rivers.

In particular, the Château de Chenonceau conjures images of fairy tales, with its elegant arches and towers, and a well-kept garden maze. Another highlight is the Château de Chambord, an immense structure that was built as a hunting lodge for the French king Francois I, set in grounds filled with deer and wild boar. This wild, sprawling castle continues to delight visitors and is thought to have been inspired by sketches by Leonardo da Vinci.

The stunning fortified towns of Amboise and Chinon both include their own castles, and provide an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Chinon is a particularly good stop for wine lovers, as it is one of the Loire’s main wine-producing areas, but this pleasant medieval settlement has many other things to offer, including a beautiful old town with distinctive slate-topped houses.

Here, it’s also possible to hire bikes, and set off to enjoy the slow beauty of the Loire Valley on two wheels, at your own pace.

Book a day trip to discover the gems of the Loire Valley here.

Just a stone’s throw from the capital, yet half a world away: the green, lush region of Champagne is one of France’s most iconic spots. This is the region that gives its name to those delicious, sparkling wines that have become an international marker of class and sophistication, and it’s impossible to come here without sampling a glass or two.

Winemaking in Champagne has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the processes, techniques and produce that go into making this quintessential French export. Épernay, the regional capital, is the perfect base from which to set out into the vineyards; just be prepared to return with heavy bags and an empty wallet!

Away from the wine trail, the Champagne region exudes old-world charm, and wandering through its beautiful villages and towns often feels like a step back in time. In fact, Champagne is a place with a visceral connection to its medieval past.

In stark contrast to the glitzy image that surrounds Champagne wines, this is a region of peace, calm and simple pleasures, where artisans and winemakers use traditional processes dating back centuries.

Troyes, an important settlement since the Roman period, features stunning medieval architecture, historic churches, and traditional timbered buildings lining its narrow streets. The regional capital, Reims , is a triumph of Gothic architecture, and its breath-taking cathedral was once the site where the kings of France were crowned and anointed.

Although it suffered extensive damage during the two world wars, Reims has been painstakingly restored in harmony with its medieval past, making it a lively, pleasant starting point from which to explore the wider Champagne region.

Book a Champagne day trip here

DORDOGNE & LOT

The Dordogne River snakes and weaves its way from the high mountains of the Auvergne, down to some of the finest countryside that France has to offer. Passing by dramatic fortified castles , perched precariously on high cliffs, the river continues through Bergerac until it meets the Garonne River at Bordeaux.

In between, the green and fertile lands that make up the Dordogne Valley offer a treasure trove of delights for visitors, both above and below the ground. Traversing the Dordogne and Lot involves, by necessity, an encounter with a very ancient past. More prehistoric remains have been found here than in any other part of France, providing a unique glimpse of the earliest origins of human society.

In the Vézère Valley, over 200 separate Palaeolithic sites have been identified, and it seems that the prehistoric inhabitants of this beautiful region were attracted by the natural protection afforded by its limestone caves.

The jewel in the crown is the fabulous site at Lascaux, where, 17,000 years ago, early humans covered the walls of the cave complex with a series of incredible paintings. More ancient still, however, are the glittering caves and grottos that may be found deeper beneath the ground.

This region is littered with incredible rock formations, formed over millions of years, with stalactites and stalagmites that have merged into epic pillars, creating natural, subterranean cathedrals of sparkling rock. Above ground, the Dordogne and Lot regions have even more treats on offer.

The beautiful medieval settlements of Rocamadour, La Roque-Gageac and Sarlat-la-Canéda are well worth a visit, as are the castles at Beynac and Castelnaud. These picturesque villages and fortified chateaux , constructed in golden stone, are set within glorious natural scenery, with abundant wildlife and birdlife.

There’s plenty here to keep active families occupied, with hiking, climbing, cycling and canoeing on offer throughout the valley. The ideal France holiday destination, this region is a little slice of heaven on earth.

Book your Dordogne tour from Sarlat here.

The Languedoc covers the southwest corner of France, a vast, sprawling region crammed full of fabulous treasures. The ‘langue d’oc’, literally means the ‘language of yes’, and refers to a medieval French dialect that fostered a rich literary and poetic culture during the Middle Ages.

This was the home of courtly love, the chivalric ideal, and the epic Romance legends of King Arthur, and it’s clear that these medieval glory days have left a deep and profound mark on the culture and landscape.

The Languedoc coast, unlike its Provençal neighbour , feels wild and unkempt and offers countless opportunities for exploration. This is the ideal place to toss out the maps and get lost – you never know what you might discover.

The cities of the Languedoc, including Toulouse and Montpelier, are known for their pleasant boulevards and squares and laid back atmosphere. The ‘pink city’ of Toulouse, so named for the terracotta bricks used in its construction, offers bustling markets and a vibrant music scene and is an ideal jumping-off point for the rest of the region.

Towards the foothills of the Pyrenees, the sanctuary of Lourdes, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in 1858, attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Pilgrims of a different kind arrive at the small town of Rennes-le-Chateau, seeking answers to a conspiracy theory that has raged for decades.

The southwest French coast, stretching from the Camargue to the Côte Vermeille, next to the Spanish frontier, is exceptionally varied, including vast, sandy beaches, marshy wetlands, and pink, rocky outcrops. This wild coast is home to fabulous sea life and many species of birds, making it an ideal spot for nature observation.

Oysters and mussels are the local specialities, and in season, you can eat them directly on the beach: seafood doesn’t come fresher than this.

The pleasant waterfront town of Sète, with its seaside corniche and atmospheric canals, is one of the best places in France to sample the catch of the day. Further inland, the landscape is dramatic, featuring imposing cliffs, gorges and valleys, chestnut forests, and vineyards, punctuated by some fabulous medieval architecture.

The fortified city of Carcassonne , once the stronghold of the Cathar heretics who rebelled against the king, is truly breathtaking and not to be missed. However, Carcassonne was not the only stronghold left behind by the Cathars, and it’s still possible to visit the dramatic ruined vestiges of Montségur, Quéribus and Peyrepertuse for an atmospheric evocation of the medieval past.

The Languedoc has long been a historical crossing point, the meeting place of different cultures, languages and even religions. These diverse influences have produced a rich and distinctive culture, making this one of France’s most rewarding regions for curious travellers.

Discover the delights of the Languedoc on a guided tour.

Provence, the delightful region that envelops the Côte d’Azur, is a heady assault on the senses. Rolling fields of bright, purple lavender , rows of vines stretching into the horizon, and gorgeous groves of twisted olive trees mark out Provence as a true garden of delights.

Aix-en-Provence , the elegant regional city , brings a touch of this rural sensuality to an urban setting, combining leafy courtyards, sculpted stone buildings, and wide boulevards strewn with terraces where visitors can while away the hours and watch the world go by. The city’s colourful markets bring together the very best of Provençal produce, in a vivid display that is sure to whet your appetite.

Avignon , one of Provence’s main cities, also offers visitors plenty of things to see and do . For the better part of the 14 th century, the papal court was based at Avignon, and in this period, popes were not known for their restraint. The Avignon popes set about building a lavish palace, which stands to this day, complete with magnificent frescos.

The city also features several excellent museums, the famous Pont d’Avignon, and an annual arts and theatre festival that attracts an international crowd.

However, Provence’s most enticing charms are found outside the main urban hubs, in the countryside. Picture-perfect medieval villages such as Venasque, Uzès and Gordes offer ample opportunity for exploration, featuring cobbled streets, golden stone architecture, and green, mountainous backdrops.

Les Baux de Provence is perhaps the finest example of restored Provençal village architecture, with its own citadel and a fearsome reputation for gastronomy.

Provence is also home to an abundance of wildlife, supported by its diverse range of natural habitats. In the southwest corner of the region, the green hills drop away to a vast wetland in the Rhône delta.

The Camargue National Park includes herds of wild, white horses, roaming bulls and flocks of startling pink flamingos. This unique, beautiful area is best explored on foot or on horseback and is certain to leave a big impression.

Book your day trip from Aix-en-Provence here .

Read More: Provence Travel Guide

The best way to discover the top destinations in France

Trying to experience the best of France on your own can be a fun and rewarding experience. But to truly get to know a destination, I usually recommend taking at least one tour with a guide who is genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about the area.

Imagine being led through a landscape laced with vineyards, to learn the intricacies of winemaking direct from the source. Or wandering through ancient city lanes, pausing to examine archaic art etched into walls that you would have otherwise overlooked. 

It is personal and authentic experiences like these that French tour company Ophorus pride themselves on. They excel at helping you discover the very best of France, their home, in a relaxed and friendly way. Ophorus guides lead the pack when it comes to delivering meaningful encounters; their expert and in-depth knowledge, delivered in a professional yet approachable manner, has earned them the highest praise from past tour attendees.

The company’s commitment to excellence has also awarded them a coveted spot in the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for 5 years running!

France is a magically diverse country, full of surprises and closely held secrets. I encourage you to explore further than the top France attractions, to discover the country that has inspired so many. Get to know it’s intricacies and you’ll no doubt be yearning to return…

Pin this for later!

*This post has been bought to you in partnership with Ophorus. As always, Le Long Weekend maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. 

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10 comments.

You’re so right that France is such a varied place! I could spend weeks in each region. There’s so much to discover! I feel so privileged to be able to live in such a beautiful country.

Absolutely – me too! I feel especially lucky to have been able to spend months living in & getting to know several areas really well – but still so much more to discover!

You’ve picked a great choice of regions to visit. Of all of those I think I like Normandy most (other than The Riviera and Provence which come first for me!) I’d like to explore more of Alsace, I’ve really only scratched the surface. I would also definitely add Brittany and the Basque coast to the list and one of my favourite places île de Ré. But honestly I could go on and on…Lyon, the Pyrennes, the Alps, Jura and volcanoes of Auvergne. Nancy, Nantes, Marseilles and the Camargue. The Catalan area around Perpignan….I better stop! Thaks for linking up to #AllAboutFrance and agreeing to host next time.

Haha yes, Provence will always come first for me too – but I’m just a little bit biased 😉

Some fantastic suggestions here, some I have visited but others are on the list! There is so much more to France, than Paris – the only problem is fitting it all in! #AllAboutFrance

So many visitors just head to Paris and however wonderful the city is, France is much more than just her capital. Great post and really happy to see you added Normandy – we have guests to our gite who come back more than once as there is just so much to see and do here! #AllAboutFrance

Thanks Nadine for your insights. We are currently planning our trip and this kind of knowledge is exactly what we were after!

Awesome. I mostly spent time in Paris so I have much to catch up to

Hi Nadine! This is really informative post. I’ve never been to France but planning to visit in a few years with my family. I definitely want to explore France other than Paris and these suggested regions help me to narrow down destinations. I also agree that going on a tour with a guide would be helpful to discover your first-visit place. Thanks a lot!

Aaaah les châteaux de la Loire! Amazing place.

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

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

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

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

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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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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15 best things to do in France: the most unmissable experiences from Paris to Provence and beyond

May 8, 2023 • 10 min read

Glittering monuments, medieval villages, rolling vineyards, soaring peaks, pounding surf: France has it all and so much more © LeoPatrizi / iStock / Getty Images

Named for the French mainland’s hexagonal shape, l’Hexagone  contains an astonishing diversity of natural and urban landscapes packed with exhilarating activities.

Glittering monuments, medieval villages, rolling vineyards, soaring peaks, pounding surf:  France has it all, and so much more it’s hard to know where to start. Find out how to get the most out of your visit with 15 of the very best things to do in France.

1. Cruise through the heart of Paris

Flowing through central Paris , the Seine is flanked by many of the French capital’s most emblematic sights. Whether it's day or night, when the river’s ripples reflect the illuminated monuments, getting out on the water sees first-time visitors fall for Paris’ charms and return travelers – and even locals – rekindle the magic.

Less touristy and more flexible than standard sightseeing cruises, the Batobus makes a nearly two-hour loop, and it’s the ultimate ticket to Paris, with all-day passes that let you hop on and off as often as you like. 

It makes nine stops: the Eiffel Tower ; Invalides military complex (and the city’s most beautiful bridge, Pont Alexandre III); Musée d'Orsay , with impressionist, post-impressionist and art nouveau masterpieces; the chic cafes and boutiques of St-Germain des Près ; Notre Dame cathedral;  Jardin des Plantes (botanic gardens), bordering the Latin Quarter; Paris’ city hall, the Hôtel de Ville (adjoining Le Marais’ hip bars and restaurants); the rambling Louvre , showcasing antiquities and art, including the Mona Lisa ; and Place de la Concorde , near the Arc de Triomphe and luxury-shop-lined Champs-Élysées .

2. Breathe in the scent of Provence’s lavender fields

In the south of France’s sun-drenched region of Provence , lavender blazes violet-blue from June to August, peaking in July . Driving along Les Routes de la Lavande (Lavender Routes), open your car windows to let in the perfume from the rows of fragrant flowers upholstering the countryside like corduroy .

The best place to learn about lavender’s history, harvest and production is at eco-museum Musée de la Lavande in the picturesque Luberon; book ahead for workshops, such as painting with scented watercolors, and bring ingredients from Provence’s markets for a picnic.

Idyllic locations to snap a quintessential photo also include Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque , a 12th-century abbey framed by lavender; the blooming fields around the honey-colored village of Sault and farms and distilleries on the Valensole plateau, beneath the scoured limestone summit of Mont Ventoux.

3. Float over fairy-tale Loire Valley châteaux in a hot-air balloon

Southwest of Paris and surrounded by vineyards, the sumptuous castles and aristocratic estates in France’s Loire Valley  make up a giant Unesco World Heritage site that’s even more spellbinding when viewed from the air.

France’s Montgolfier brothers invented the montgolfière (hot-air balloon) in the 18th century, and more recent forms of transport still can’t compete with drifting with the wind while soaking up the views in – other than the hiss of the burner – blissful silence. From April to October, when flying conditions are best, companies such as France Montgolfières operate balloon flights in the Loire Valley just after sunrise and before sunset, with a celebratory toast upon landing.

4. Find epicurean heaven in Burgundy

With ribbons of stone-walled vineyards first planted by Romans and tended by monks from the local abbeys, bucolic  Burgundy (Bourgogne in French) to Paris’ southeast is synonymous with the wines that accompany regional specialities, like snails, poultry, beef, truffles, mustard, cheeses, blackcurrants and gingerbread.

Burgundy’s capital, Dijon , is a perfect place to dive in: the Unesco-protected “French gastronomic meal” is the centerpiece of the 2022-opened Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin  (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), which sprawls across 6.5 hectares (16 acres). Whet your appetite at its array of exhibitions, shops and wine-school and cookery classes, and satiate it at the array of restaurants and spectacular wine bar.

South from Dijon, some of the world’s most famous vineyards unfold along the Route des Grands Crus.

5. Watch fountains dance to baroque music at Versailles

Wandering through ornate gardens in summer as plumes of water leap and splash to dramatic baroque music transports you back to the French monarchy’s glory days at the Château de Versailles .

France’s most opulent palace was built for King Louis IX on the site of his father’s hunting lodge, 22km (13 miles) southwest of Paris in the mid-17th century by the finest architects and artisans of the day. Louis XVI and his queen, Marie-Antoinette, later reveled in its excess, until the French Revolution ended the party and they were guillotined.

On summer Saturdays, you can relive that lavish lifestyle with a “Royal Serenade” in the palace’s glimmering Hall of Mirrors. Reserve ahead for these and other seasonal events, such as nighttime shows with torches, candles and fireworks illuminating the gardens. The palace and grounds can be toured year-round.

6. Hit the slopes of the world’s largest ski resort in the French Alps

Schussing through fresh powder reaches its zenith at Les 3 Vallées . Over a vast natural playground covering upwards of 45,000 hectares (111,197 acres), with 600km (373 miles) of ski runs and a cumulative 62,000m (203,412ft) of vertical drop and boundless free-riding opportunities, this is the largest ski resort in the world . And its altitude means the snow season stretches from November into May (outside of which the hiking and mountain biking are epic).

At 2300m (7546ft), Val Thorens is Europe’s highest ski village; the Boismint & Plan de l’Eau’s descent is one of Les Trois Vallées’ trophy runs. (Others include St-Martin de Belleville’s Jérusalem, Meribel’s Olympic Roc de Fer and Courchevel’s Eclipse.) Rural Orelle, with a cable car carrying you directly to Val Thorens, makes a cheaper, off-the-beaten-track base.

7. Ride the waves in and around Biarritz

On southwestern France’s Atlantic coast, Biarritz ’ belle époque villas, striped beach tents and ritzy cafes, restaurants and spa hotels retain a cachet from Napoleon III’s holidays here. But you’re also as likely to see surfers’ vans trawling the coast on the lookout for legendary waves in what is now the surf capital of Europe.

Breakers roll in to the golden sweep of sand at Biarritz’ main city beach, Grande Plage. Beyond the 19th-century lighthouse to the north, Anglet has 11 beaches extending more than 4km (2.5 miles), renowned for their consistent swell and powerful barrels.

North again, Capbreton and Hossegor host major international competitions. Surf schools can get you out on the waves – and above them, with awesome conditions for kitesurfing; choose one with Féderation Française de Surf (FFS) registration.

8. Tour subterranean Champagne cellars in Épernay

Beneath Épernay ’s elegant streets, a staggering 200 million bottles of bubbly are aged in a maze of more than 110km (68 miles) of chilly chalk cellars. Delve below ground on tours of famous Champagne houses, including Mercier, Moët & Chandon and De Castellane.

Above ground, the superbly restored mid-19th-century red-brick mansion Château Perrier now houses the sparkling 2021-opened Musée du Vin de Champagne et d’Archéologie Régionale (Museum of Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology). From Épernay, you can set out into the vineyards along a Champagne wine trail.

9. Retrace the footsteps of medieval pilgrims to Mont St-Michel

Like a mirage appearing across the shimming sand – or rising from the sea at the speed of galloping horses, thanks to Europe’s highest tidal range of up to 15m (49ft) – the extraordinary abbey-island of  Mont St-Michel sits off the coast of Normandy in northwestern France. Fortified during the Middle Ages, the turreted, spire-topped abbey still sees Benedictine monks hold services here most days.

Arriving at Mont St-Michel is something of a pilgrimage itself, as you cross the causeway by maringote (horse-drawn carriage), motorized shuttle or on foot (steep steps on the island are unavoidable). For the original pilgrim experience – and an up-close appreciation of the bay’s natural environment, including 130 different bird species – walk barefoot across the bay with an accredited guide at low tide.

10. Visit the birthplace of cinema in Lyon

France’s third-largest metropolis, at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers in the country’s southeast, Lyon has long been a creative hub. In 1895, brothers Auguste and Louis Lumière shot the first-ever motion-picture reels of workers leaving their photographic-plate factory, La Sortie des Usines Lumières ( Exit of the Lumières Factories ).

Across from the original "Hangar du Premier-Film" (“First Film Shed”), preserved as a historic monument and integrated into a contemporary screening center, is the family’s beautiful art nouveau villa, where  museum exhibits include the brothers’ Cinematograph and other inventions and equipment that brought the magic of cinema to life. The gardens are a venue for Lyon’s Festival Lumière each October, with more screenings, events and ceremonies around the vibrant city.

11. Cycle around Carnac’s otherworldly megaliths

Shrouded in the mists of Celtic history in northwestern France,  Carnac in  Brittany  is home to the greatest concentration of megalithic sites anywhere on earth.

Probe their origins at the  Maison des Mégalithes , and pedal across the windswept landscape featuring more than 3000 menhirs (standing stones), dolmens (capstone tombs) and tumuli (grave mounds) dating from Neolithic times – estimated to be between 5000 and 3500 BCE, making them older than Stonehenge.

Pick up bikes (traditional or electric) from a handful of outlets around Carnac. Access is restricted in the busy summer months, but in any case, the ancient alignments are at their most mystical in the early morning or approaching dusk on winter days.

12. Marvel at Matisse’s artistry on the Côte d'Azur

Stroll alongside  Nice ’s pebbled beach on the palm-lined  Promenade des Anglais almost any time of year, and you’ll see why the glorious  French Riviera light drew artists such as Renoir, Picasso and Henri Matisse.

At the Genoese villa housing Nice’s  Musée Matisse , you can get an intimate perspective on his paintings, drawings, prints, cut-outs and sculptures and visit his  grave across the park.

For the most ethereal example of Matisse’s work, head 32km (20 miles) east to Vence, where seeing sunshine filter through the stained-glass windows of the chapel he designed, the  Chapelle du Rosaire , is a profoundly spiritual experience.

13. Paddle beneath the mighty Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard

From Collias in southern France’s Languedoc , a ninety-minute paddle by canoe or kayak takes you along the winding Gard past sunflower fields, rock formations and extraordinary Pont du Gard . A legacy of the Romans from circa 19 BCE, this three-tier, 52-arch aqueduct once transported water from Uzès to Nîmes. Its enormous size becomes even more apparent looking up from underneath.

Canoeing is possible from March to October, but in spring and early summer, the water level can be high and the current strong; late summer and autumn are prime. To save the return journey, Collias’ rental outfits can collect you a further half-hour downstream.

14. Hike up Puy de Dôme to survey the volcanic landscape

Deep in central France, you can sense the landscape’s evolution in one of the country’s wildest and most remote natural regional parks, the  Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne .

Part of the Chaîne des Puys, a 40km (25-mile) string of craters, cinder cones and lava domes now cloaked in beech and spruce forest, the pinnacle, Puy de Dôme, rises 1465m (4806ft). Climbing the dormant volcano to the grassy summit rewards you w­ith swooping bird's-eye views. Two routes, the steep Chemin des Muletiers (45 to 90 minutes) and longer but steadier Chemin des Chèvres (two-and-a-half hours) make the ascent.

For an easier alternative, board the Panoramique des Dômes cog railway for a 15-minute trip. To get up even higher, spiral above Puy de Dôme on a paragliding flight.

15. Ring in the festive season at Strasbourg’s historic Christmas market

While  Strasbourg is as pretty as a picture in summer, when geraniums spill out the half-timbered buildings’ window boxes in canal-laced  Petite France , the lovely Alsatian capital in northeastern France is even more enchanting come Noël . Dating back to 1570, its  Christkindelsmärik is the oldest Christmas market in France and one of the oldest in Europe.

From late November to late December, hundreds of stalls selling handcrafted toys, steaming mulled wine and bredle (Christmas cookies made with spices such as cinnamon) set up around Strasbourg’s 15th-century Gothic  cathedral . Place Kléber’s 30m (98ft) Christmas tree from the nearby  Vosges mountains is strung with decorations, and twinkling lights throughout the city create a winter wonderland.

This article was first published Aug 6, 2022 and updated May 8, 2023.

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8 best regions in France for beautiful scenery, vineyards and foodies

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Few countries can boast as wide a range of things to see and experienceas France . Its cities have famous landmarks, beachside promenades, medieval Old Towns and grand squares; its natural landscapes are home to towering mountains, lush green fields and over 3,000 miles of coastline.

Whether you’re seeing art in the capital or sliding down a slope in the Alps, you’ll quickly realise why our cross-Channel neighbour is one of the most visited countries in the world.

With so many holiday-worthy destinations , it can be difficult to choose where to go when visiting France (although struggling to decide between sightseeing, skiing, beachside relaxation and strolling through lavender fields is arguably a good problem to have).

Thankfully, many regions in France offer an exciting mix of all the above, including city breaks, nature escapes and more. To help you plan your dream Gallic getaway, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best regions in the country.

Paris and Ile-de-France

Paris and the surrounding northern region is home to some of the most important historical sites and landmarks in France (and Europe). The City of Light has gained a reputation for sophistication and grandeur, whether that be in its relaxed terrasse dining culture or the elegance of its Haussmannian buildings. Landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and Champs-Elysees are the defining image of the city, though it is more than just its landmarks. From the Louvre and a Seine river cruise to Roland-Garros and the Latin Quarter (not to mention its many other districts ), the city offers a dizzying array of things to do and see ( for all the family ).

Beyond Paris, the region is home to a similarly eclectic range of attractions. Versailles and its palace have played important roles in French and European history, while on the other side of the city lies the popular Disneyland Paris park. Famous golf courses are also dotted around the area, and the areas of Fontainebleau and Auvers-sur-Oise showcase the region’s rustic charm and forest greenery.

Loire Valley

The 170-mile long Loire Valley region sits in the central part of the country, less than two hours from Paris by train. The area is famous for its chateaux (large country or manor houses previously belonging to nobles and gentry); there are said to be more than 300 in the area, each with unique features, from fortifications to vast landscaped gardens. The Loire River is the longest in France and part of it is covered by the 560-mile ‘Loire a Veto’ cycling route that traverses miles of verdant countryside, hidden villages and buzzing cities.

One such city is Tours, the gateway to the valley centred on its medieval Vieux Tours district and central square, where old timbered houses line the streets. Other notable cities include Angers and Orleans. The latter, once liberated from an English siege by Joan of Arc, boasts several examples of medieval architecture alongside its Gothic cathedral. Angers is dominated by an impressive castle, an imposing structure with 17 towers that houses the Apocalypse Tapestry, one of the largest and oldest in Europe.

Read more on France travel :

• Eight of the best coastal campsites in France for a beach holiday
• Le Mans: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in the motorsport capital of France
• Why Hauts-de-France is having a foodie moment

Cote d’Azur

Widely known in English as the French Riviera, the Cote d’Azur is France’s prime destination for picturesque seaside relaxation. Its picture-perfect towns and cities have a glamorous history – Queen Victoria was known to have visited the area several times, for example – and still today carry an air of elegance and grandeur. Nice is the main city in the region; also loved by Victoria, it has golden beaches and azure waters right on the doorstep, with a backdrop of russet-roofed buildings and winding streets.

Cannes and St Tropez may steal the contemporary limelight due to film festivals and celebrity visits, but smaller towns such as Menton and Villefranche-sur-Mer are among the most idyllic on the Riviera. In both, rolling green hills lead down to long stretches of golden sand and emerald waters, with multi-coloured buildings dotted along the mountainside leading down to the beach.

A historic region in the south of the country, part of Provence covers the French Riviera, but with so much else to do and see, the area deserves its own recommendation. It stretches as far west as Arles and north up to Gap, including coastal wonders, Papal palaces, Roman aqueducts and one of the most characterful cities in the country.

Marseille is perhaps the main attraction. France’s second city has maintained some of its gritty image while adding cultural offerings (the Museum of Civilisations of Europe and the less-recent Regards de Provence) and transforming districts like Le Panier, as well as retaining its two main beaches, Plage des Catalans and Plage du Prophete. Avignon is Provence’s second city; set on the banks of the Rhone, its Palais des Papes was once home to the papacy, and the city is best enjoyed by wandering its medieval streets.

Nature lovers will want to see the famed lavender fields, with the areas around Sault and Luberon known as two of the best places to see the blooms. The Provencal Colorado – named due to its resemblance to the orange deserts of the American state – is a unique natural attraction, while places such as the Gorges du Verdon and Sillans la Cascade waterfall offer opportunities to hike and wild swim. Wine aficionados won’t be left disappointed here either; the region is known for its varieties of rose wine, and it is said that there are over 600 local wine producers.

French Alps

Europe’s premier skiing destination, the French section of the Alps home to some of the biggest and most charming resorts in the world . Offering a range of places that cater to all sorts of budgets , the Alps boasts thousands of miles of pistes and dozens of striking Alpine towns, from Chamonix and Val d’Isere to Courchevel and Morzine. Though the resorts are also popular hiking destinations in summer, they come to life when the snow falls; visitors can ski or snopwboard on some of the highest mountains in Europe, from beginner-level tracks to incredible off-piste routes such as those on Mont Blanc .

The Rhone and Rhone Valley

One of France’s main rivers , the Rhone begins in the Mediterranean, starting near the city of Arles and extending up into Lake Geneva and into the Rhone Glacier in the Swiss Alps . The Rhone Valley is yet another famous wine region in France; it starts in Vienne and extends down to just east of Arles and is home to over 6,000 producers, with dozens of companies offering wine tours in the area. River cruises are an option for taking in as many sites as possible in a short time.

With settlements often situated on the banks of the river, the waterways and hills provide a scenic backdrop. This is certainly true of Lyon ; sitting at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone, the country’s third-largest city has a spectacular mix of Romanesque, Gothic and 19th-century architecture, certified with Unesco World Heritage status.

Southwest and the Basque Country

The French Basque Country sits on the border with Spain and includes historic cities such as Biarritz and Bayonne. The general southwest region is home to two more of France’s best cities, Bordeaux and Toulouse. These urban hotspots are vastly different in character; Biarritz is now a trendy, arty alternative to historic Bayonne, while the limestone streets and buildings of Bordeaux (France’s most important wine-producing region) stand in stark contrast to the terracotta architecture of ‘The Pink City’ of Toulouse.

Nevertheless, all four are picturesque standouts that have retained a mix of historic architecture among their various squares and cathedrals, making for charming, quintessentially French destinations. Whether on a wine tour in Bordeaux, by the beach in Biarritz, walking the streets of Bayonne or taking in the architecture of Toulouse, the southwest promises a great range of activities.

Alsace-Lorraine

The northern region of Alsace is a blend of French and German cultural influences, from cuisine to distinct local dialects. The main attraction is the city of Strasbourg , the regional capital famed for its sandstone cathedral and traditional Christmas markets. A network of waterways makes it a particularly scenic city, and nowhere is this more visible than the Petite France district, where half-timbered houses line cobblestone streets that line the banks of the canals. Colmar is also an attractive city, where colourful houses line the town’s waterways in the the French-German answer to Ghent.

Visit Alsace at Christmastime to soak up a festive atmosphere across the various markets, or come during summer to sample the Route des Vins, a well-known, 105-mile route across the region’s best wine-producing towns and vineyards. Elsewhere, the Vosges National Park is home to low mountain ranges that are popular with hikers.

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A tour of France's new must-see places

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Cultural Heritage

Reading time: 0 min Published on 11 March 2024, updated on 16 April 2024

Thirsty for culture? All over France, new museums, art centres and other hybrid venues are now preparing to receive their first visitors. Travel through the epic history of books and images at the Dominican Convent of Colmar, plunge into the cauldron of contemporary creativity at Luma Arles deep in Provence, explore ancient Gaul at NarboVia in Narbonne or take an impressionist stroll through Les Franciscaines de Deauville and the Abbaye de Fontevraud... We reveal the most iconic new cultural venues of today, which you should definitely experience just as soon as health crisis restrictions allow!

Cité Internationale de la langue française at the Château de Villers-Cotterêts, Hauts-de-France

Less than 100 km from Paris, in the Hauts-de-France region, the Château de Villers-Cotterêts, a listed historic monument, occupies a unique place in French history. It was within its walls that King François I signed an eponymous ordinance in 1539 establishing the use of French as the official language of law and justice. Nearly 700 years later, the building, which has been abandoned since 2014 and then restored, is opening a new page in its tumultuous history by becoming a centre for the dissemination of French-speaking cultures with the opening, in Autumn 2023, of the Cité Internationale de la langue française. An architectural work consisting of a contemporary-style glass roof with hanging words (in French, of course), the castle will house 1600m² of exhibitions, artists' workshops in residence, educational activities and an innovation laboratory.

Visit the Cité Internationale de la langue française at the Château de Villers-Cotterêts in Hauts-de-France (scheduled to open in 2023).

The Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne: a dive into the vineyards

Listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2015, the 1247 Climats de Bourgogne , these micro wine-growing areas that make the Burgundy vineyards famous throughout the world, now have a dedicated cultural venue... or rather three! Spread over the sites of Chablis, Beaune and Macon, the Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne is open to the public since spring 2023.

The capital of Burgundy wines , known for its hospices which host a prestigious auction every autumn, Beaune is the reference interpretation centre for the Climats and wines of Burgundy, but each site offer immersive sensory experiences and a fun trail dedicated to children to learn all about the Burgundy vineyard.

At Beaune, the eco-built building in the heart of a 10-hectare park takes the form of a vine tendril leading visitors to a panoramic terrace, more than 20 metres above the ground. Further north, in the village of Chablis, it is in the historic cellar of Petit Pontigny, dating from the 12th century, surrounded by a garden that visitors is immersed in the wine-growing landscapes of northern Burgundy (Chablisien, Grand Auxerrois and Châtillonnais). On the banks of the Saône, the Cité des Climats de Macon is visible from afar with its contemporary wine press screw rising above the exhibition areas. Côte Chalonnaise, Mâconnais, Côtes du Couchois, the vineyards of southern Burgundy will hold no secrets for you.

Visit the Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne

Voir cette publication sur Instagram Une publication partagée par Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne (@citeclimatsvinsbourgogne)

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A small French region has been named the best place for foreigners thanks to its amenities and cheap housing

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As one of the largest countries in Western Europe, France is a crucial gateway between the continent’s northern and southern regions.

Its climate and cultural heritage have also put it on the map for retirees and foreigners looking to build a new life abroad.

Landscapes vary widely across regions and each has its charm, but one area that is highly regarded by both locals and expats is Britanny's Medieval capital; Rennes.

Kristin Wilson, a digital nomad entrepreneur who has travelled to 63 countries in 20 years, shed light on the destination in a recent clip posted from her YouTube account Traveling with Kristin.

Rennes is Britanny's Medieval capital

She said Rennes “was voted the happiest place to live in France by French people in a nationwide survey”, adding: “You’ve got locals vouching for it as well as foreigners.

“An expat newspaper called ‘The Local France’ has also ranked as the best place for foreigners to live for its amenities, cheap housing and small city feel.”

Brittany’s capital is particularly popular with British expats because its proximity to the UK is a bonus for those with business obligations.

“Rennes is also really well connected to other cities in France with multiple trains to Paris daily, and it’s also a great place to immerse yourself in nature, with its rugged coastline, ancient forest and diverse landscapes,” explained Kristin.

“It was also ranked as the most liveable city in the region and among the top three per cent of cities to live in the world.

“Summers are also mild, with average temperatures between 57 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit (14 and 24 degrees Celsius), that’s in the peak of summer. Luckily sunny days are possible year-round, which is not always the case for France."

The satisfaction of Rennes' residents is also based on its exemplary public transportation and closeness to nature.

“The region will appeal to you if you’re looking for that rugged nature, but also if you’re seeking a strong sense of community, as many expats like to call this area home," noted Kristin.

She went on: “If you want a close connection to nature or a big group of friends, consider Rennes. This lifestyle in Brittany is closely tied to the sea with its many picturesque villages and the popularity of water sports.

“Rennes and Britanny are perfect for families, students and retirees, or anyone who is looking to immerse themselves in a culturally unique part of France, and also feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of normal city life."

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France has been named one of the best places to live by expats and locals

Although the region offers scores of benefits to locals, foreigners without a command of the language may struggle.

Kristin noted: “On the downside, however, the language barrier can be an issue here if you don’t speak French."

She added: "It’s also not the best location if you want to live near an international airport."

Other expats living in France have claimed that the country's bureaucracy can be a nuisance.

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Best Places to Live in France Under $2,700

F or many people tempted to move abroad, one of the most pressing questions is whether they will be able to afford living in France. It is true that some aspects of the cost of living in France – such as food shopping – are more expensive than in other countries, but rental prices can be affordable in some parts of the country.

If you're planning to live in France, your cost of housing will be the biggest monthly expense. The ‘rule of thumb' is that your rent should not exceed one third of your monthly budget. With a monthly income of $2,700 for two people, the target rent price is $900 per month or less.

Even if you have a modest budget, you will be delighted to learn that there are attractive locations to choose from, where the quality of life is high while the cost of living is very attractive.

Here are six best places in France to live for less than $2,700 per month , based on rental costs for two people living in a two-bedroom apartment.

6. Saint-Étienne

• Population: 400,000 
• Rent for two-bedroom apartment: $800
• Estimated cost of living: $2,400

Situated in eastern-central France in the Auvergne-Rhone-Alps region, Saint-Étienne stands at an altitude of 530 metres and with 85 cm (33 inches) of snow most winters, it is France's snowiest city.

St Étienne has an industrial heritage as it was a major coal mining and manufacturing center. Long known as the city of  "weapon, cycle and ribbon " it was an industrial hub, but there is plenty of natural beauty too. The city was the center of the French bicycle industry and manufacturers of wheels and frames are still based there.

Many historic buildings in the center of Saint-Étienne have recently been converted into modern apartments as part of the urban renewal project that is transforming the city from a 19 th century industrial hub to a modern ‘design city'. Other key developments include the creation of the Châteaucreux business district, the ‘Steel' retail complex and a new creative manufacturing district.

Saint-Étienne is known for its quality and affordable housing. An added bonus is that the cost of everyday living in Saint-Etienne is below average. There is a good public transport network, with easy access to other parts of France and Europe.

Cycling is very popular in this ‘cycle-friendly' city boasting plenty of great bike lanes.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Pilat National Park is a great place for cycling, hiking, bird watching and nature photography.

Culturally, the city is vibrant with a number of cultural events, including the bi-annual Massenet Festival, as this French composer was born not far from the city. For those who enjoy museums, you'll have four to choose from, including Musée de la Mine and Musée de vieux Saint-Etienne.

See Saint-Etienne on the map . 

• Population: 144,000 

Limonges is a pleasant town with some superb architecture including the 10 th century Gothic Cathedral of St. Martial. There are plenty of modern amenities and a warm community spirit, with a small, but strong, expatriate community. Limoges is a quiet city with affordable rents and the general living costs are up to 50% lower than in Paris and Nice.

Limoges has hot summers, while winters in this area can be surprisingly cold.

The city is colorful and very authentic as it does not get inundated with tourists. In the old city center there are cobbled streets and many old buildings that hint at its rich heritage.

One of the unique things about Limoges is its worldwide reputation for decorated porcelain and enamel work – which are still produced today. The pedestrian Quartier de la Boucherie (the butchers' district), is particularly attractive with its timber-framed houses dating from the 14 th century.

The river Vienne runs through the city, creating beautiful areas of greenland on both river banks. Jardin Botanique de l'Evêché is a particularly attractive public garden with over 1,000 rose bushes.

The city's public transport network is very good – with an impressive bus and tram network and one of the most beautiful railways stations in France!  It is easy to get to Paris (a distance of 400 km) and other French cities. It's also easy to reach Spain from here. Notably, Limoges has its own international airport.

If you're looking for a rich cultural and social life, you're in for a treat. The town hosts a variety of different festivals including a popular jazz festival.  There are several excellent markets that showcase local produce. The city has a large central covered market, while in the winter, its Christmas Market is highly popular.

• Population: 139,000
• Rent for two-bedroom apartment: $900
• Estimated cost of living: $2,700

Located in the Brittany region in northern France, Brest is a dynamic working city with plenty of different employment opportunities. The city has a rich maritime heritage, plenty of coastal beauty and the big plus is that Bretons are known for their friendliness.

Brittany has a mild climate with frequent rainy days. There are stunning coastal walks to enjoy along its Atlantic coast and large sandy beaches to stretch out on. There are plenty of water sports available too. The cost of living in this area is attractively low – both for housing and general living expenses- and a monthly rent of $900 is easily achievable.

The region is well known for Breton cuisine so there are plenty of great dishes to enjoy including the famous ‘gallettes' – savory pancakes.

Brest has a comprehensive healthcare service and equally good public transport service and cycle tracks. So many residents find these the ideal way to travel.

Brest also has a thriving arts scene with theatres including the Quartz National Stage and several art galleries. For younger families relocating, Brest can be a good choice as it is home to the University of West Brittany and international schools.

• Population: 143,000 

Well known as the host of the famous 24-hour car race each June, Le Mans in the Pays de la Loire region of France is a hidden gem for those searching for a new and affordable home in France .

Not far from the race track stands the ‘Vielle Quartier', which is also known as ‘Plantagenet City', with its narrow, cobbled streets and half-timber houses. This part of the city has a rich history and stands within the old city walls.

A 500-metre section of the Roman wall, built from blocks of ochre-colored limestone, still stands on the banks of the River Sarthe. Among the city's many treasures are the Domaine de l'Épau and the Abbaye Royale de l'Épau.

Le Mans has a population of 143,500, but in June it gets really busy with all the fans coming to see the race. Certainly, the city has plenty to offer including a pleasant climate that is not too hot in the summer and mild in the winter.

The city has numerous parks and green spaces, good dining options, a vibrant nightlife and a good range of outdoor activities. Its central location also makes travel to other parts of France easy, with Paris being just an hour away by train.

For those who enjoy cultural events there is a wealth of art and music events all year long.  One event that is particularly popular is La Nuit des Chimères in July/August, which is a colorful sound and light show on all the city's monuments – and all the streets that connect the monuments are also filled with light images. There are traditional local dishes to sample too, including ‘ rillettes '- a meat spread perfect for sandwiches!

2. Clermont-Ferrand

• Population: 504,000 

This city is situated in on the Massif Centrale of France, and surrounded by industrial areas and old volcanoes that are called Chaine des Puys. The city stands in the rain shadow of the volcanoes, making it one of the driest in France and giving the city a continental climate with hotter summers and colder winters.

Since 2018, Clermont-Ferrand has been listed as a "tectonic hotspot" by the UNESCO World Heritage list. It is one of the oldest cities in France, founded by the Ancient Greeks before later developing into a Roman city. Since then, it has had a colorful history. Above its red rooftops stand the twin spires of the Gothic cathedral which was built in black lava stone.

Clermont Ferrand has a number of interesting places including the UNESCO-listed Notre Dame du Port. There are four different parks and public garden too. The city has a long manufacturing history – linked to the French tire manufacturer, Michelin, but today only its administrative headquarters remain. The main industries are food-processing and engineering and it remains a very prosperous city. The city's university is well known for its engineering department.

The Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival ( Festival du Court-Métrage de Clermont-Ferrand ) is one of the most important festivals of its kind in the world. The town also hosts more than twenty other music, film, dance, theatre and digital art festivals every year.  On the sports front, rugby is much-loved here and the city regularly features in route of the Tour de France.

The city has good rail connections with many regional destinations, but interestingly, the TGV service will not extend to Clermont-Ferrand until 2030, so some journeys are more time-consuming than they need be. The city was however, the first to get the Translohr tram system, which has a good network within the city. Clermont-Ferrand also has excellent autoroute connections and an airport offering internal flights.

1. Perpignan

• Population: 123,000 

Those dreaming of life in the South of France will be surprised to learn that Perpignan is affordable. The city certainly enjoys the lovely year-round climate of the south, but some might find it too hot in August when temperatures regularly hit 40C (104F) and are still about 28C (82F) at night. In comparison, winters in the region are pleasantly mild.

Perpignan has a unique geographical location in France as it is within close proximity of both the Mediterranean coast and the Pyrénées. Not surprisingly, it is known for its beauty and good quality of life. Perpignan has a rich Catalan heritage and many Spanish influences.

Perpignan is a vibrant city offering plenty of historical places to visit and green spaces for relaxing. Housing is plentiful and well-priced and rents are affordable. Living in Perpignan gives you access to a great cultural life with various art exhibitions, theatre performances, and music events throughout the year. The Fête de Saint-Vincent is one of the most important festivals.

There are several local markets with plenty of locally grown produce, fresh fish and local wines – prices are noticeably lower too. For families with children there are several international schools in the city.

The city has long been influenced by Spain and because of this operates a siesta-style of business with long lunchbreaks in the summer months.

The public transport system is not as comprehensive as it could be, so residents either walk or invest in a bicycle. Language can be tricky too as local residents speak both French and Catalan. Perpignan is certainly an attractive city to consider and offers a very distinct lifestyle.

All of these cities have much to offer those wanting to relocate to France and a monthly budget of $2,700 will be suffice because of each city's attractive rent prices.

For those who do not relish city life, but prefer to live relatively close for amenities but prefer the charm and of village life , each of these suggested cities also have a number of surrounding villages that are worth considering too.

Before deciding where to live in France , the best approach is to rent for one year so that you have the opportunity to discover whether your chosen city suits you and which of its neighborhoods you find most appealing.

This article originally appeared on MyDolceCasa and was syndicated by MediaFeed.

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The best scar treatments, according to dermatologists

Whether it’s from acne , surgery or another wound-inducing experience, scars are almost as inevitable as they are, by definition, permanent. You won’t find many over-the-counter products that’ll make them disappear, especially for deeper scars that create textural changes on your skin. In these cases, you will benefit most from medical interventions at your dermatologist’s office, according to our experts.

However, all hope isn’t lost: Medical and at-home treatments can help certain scars blend into the skin and make them less noticeable, according to dermatologists. Scar type and any color changes are a few factors to keep in mind when determining the best scar treatment for you.

To help guide your shopping, we spoke to dermatologists about the different types of scars you can get and whether at-home remedies can actually be effective at reducing their appearance. We also rounded up some over-the-counter options to shop based on their guidance.

SKIP AHEAD Best scar treatments | How do scars form? | What are the different types of scars? | Are color changes a form of scarring? | How to treat scars and color changes at home | In-office scar treatments

Selected. Our top picks

select Don’t let dark spots get you down, these tranexamic acid serums can help.

How we picked the best scar treatments.

Keep in mind that over-the-counter treatments won’t do much to flatten raised scars, and most scars are best treated with in-office treatments like microneedling, chemical peels and lasers, according to our experts. However, if you want to minimize the appearance of a scar or hyperpigmentation, you may be able to treat it over time with gels, sheets and oils, depending on the severity and depth of scarring.

Here are the top expert-recommended ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of scars and color changes:

• Silicone: “After the wound closes, silicone gels can help the scar heal the best it can,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner , director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital . Silicone gels and sheets, which experts say have the best evidence of reducing the appearance of scars, form a seal over the skin to maintain skin hydration and protect it from the environment. Silicone sheets don’t typically flatten thick, raised scars, but they can prevent scar formation after a procedure or traumatic event, says Dr. Amy McMichael , professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine .
• Retinoids: These are prescription-strength treatments that help reduce hyperpigmentation, skin discoloration and some skin scarring by increasing skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen, according to our experts. “Tretinoin (topical retin-A) can help in early superficial scarring from acne and stretch marks , but [they are] not helpful for [raised scars like] hypertrophic scars and keloids,” says McMichael. Retinol , which is a weaker type of retinoid, is available over the counter, and it can help improve uneven skin tone and texture.
• Vitamin C: This is an antioxidant that can help reduce the appearance of redness and mild color changes. However, keep in mind that vitamin C will not treat the thickness of scars.
• Hydroquinone: Typically found in skin lightening creams, this ingredient can help fade red or brown dark spots caused by hyperpigmentation or color changes. However, it’s not available over-the-counter, and you’ll need a prescription. Like vitamin C, hydroquinone will not treat the thickness of a scar.

Best scar creams and gels

If you need help treating scars, our experts recommend consulting your dermatologist first. For at-home treatments, we highlighted dermatologist-recommended products below that can prevent wounds from turning into noticeable scars or minimize the appearance of existing scars.

Best scar gel: Mederma Advanced Scar Gel

Mederma Advanced Scar Gel

This topical scar gel is a favorite among our experts because it can help flatten raised scars and minimize pain. The gel has Cepalin botanical extract, which helps lock in moisture, produce collagen and renew cells to reduce the appearance of scars from acne, burns, injury and surgery, according to the brand. Mederma recommends applying this treatment as soon as your wound closes and continue using it daily for at least eight weeks on new scars and three to six months on existing scars.

Best scar sheets: Scaraway Clear Silicone Scar Sheets

ScarAway Clear Silicone Scar Sheets

These clear, self-adhesive silicone sheets mimic the natural skin barrier and provide a moist environment, which allows the scar to heal better, according to Dr. Marisa Garshick , a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City. “It helps to hydrate the skin, and the adhesive is comfortable and flexible, enabling you to keep the scar covered and protected while you heal,” she says. 

In addition to protecting newly healed wounds, these patches also work to flatten and soften older, existing scars, which helps reduce their appearance, according to the brand. You can wear one for up to 10 days, and they’re water-resistant so they can withstand exposure to short-term moisture like showering, sweating and light rain, according to Scaraway.

Best for surgical scars: Kelo-Cote Advanced Formula Scar Gel

Kelo-Cote Advanced Formula Scar Gel

You can apply this silicone scar gel twice daily to reduce redness and soften raised scars, according to the brand. Zeichner recommends this gel to his patients after surgical procedures because it dries fully without leaving the skin feeling sticky, he says. The formula is also clear, non-greasy and water-resistant, according to Kelo-Cote.

Best SPF scar gel: BioCorneum Plus SPF 30 Silicone Scar Gel

BioCorneum Plus SPF 30 Silicone Scar Gel

The BioCorneum topical silicone treatment uses patented technology to help soften raised scars and minimize itching, redness and discoloration, says Garshick. It also has SPF 30, so it ensures your scar is protected from the sun, which our experts say is important to prevent scars from looking worse.

Best liquid scar sheet: Scarguard Repair Liquid

Scarguard Repair Liquid

The Scarguard Repair Liquid is a brush-on silicone sheet that dries quickly to create a protective patch around a newly healed wound, says Garshick. You can apply twice daily to not only help prevent scars from forming but also shrink old scars, according to the brand. It’s water- and heat-resistant, and it has vitamin E to keep the area hydrated, according to our experts.

Best budget-friendly: Vaseline Healing Jelly

Vaseline Healing Jelly Original

After the initial wound heals, you can massage ointments like Vaseline onto the injury to help soften any scar tissue, says Garshick. The ointment creates a protective barrier and helps keep the area moist to facilitate the healing process and minimize scab formation, she says. The Vaseline Healing Jelly is fragrance-free, noncomedogenic (it won’t clog pores) and has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance , meaning it’s suitable for sensitive skin, according to the brand.

Best scar oil: Bio-Oil Body Oil

Bio-Oil Body Oil

“Bio-Oil is a great, easy-to-find option for scars,” says Garshick. It combines plant extracts like calming chamomile (helps reduce redness) and calendula (has antibacterial effects) with vitamin A (helps stimulate collagen) and vitamin E (for hydration), she says. Bio-Oil is also noncomedogenic and great for stretch marks and uneven skin tone, according to the brand.

Best moisturizing scar gel: Serica Scar Gel

Serica Scar Gel

“Serica scar gel combines lipids with silicone to form a hydrating, protective seal over the skin to allow scar tissue to remodel,” says Zeichner. This formula helps improve the appearance of old and new scars, moisturizes the area to reduce texture and creates a more even skin tone, according to the brand. Serica recommends applying this gel three times a day, or as directed by your dermatologist.

Best splurge: Dermafacs RecoverX

Dermafacs RecoverX

Great for acne and face scars, this gel boosts hydration and helps penetrate the deeper layers of the skin using orthosilicic acid, a naturally occurring molecule that helps new healthy skin regenerate, says Garshick. The brand recommends applying a dime-sized amount twice daily using your hands or the included spatula. Apply the serum in circular motions until it’s fully absorbed into the skin, according to Dermafacs.

How do scars form?

Scars form as a result of the skin repairing itself after an injury, and they’ll often look and feel different than the surrounding skin, according to our experts. There are all kinds of scars, including surgical scars, stretch marks, acne scars and burn scars.

“After the initial wound healing phase, the skin undergoes new tissue formation as well as remodeling, and incorporates collagen to help with scar formation,” says Garshick. The way scars appear on the skin depends on how collagen is produced, which makes some scars more noticeable than others depending on the specific type of injury, the depth of injury, the location and other individual factors.

What are the different types of scars?

There are three main types of scars — atrophic, hypertrophic and keloid scars — and they vary significantly in appearance and shape, according to our experts. The type of scar and its physical appearance is a direct result of how your body chooses to heal after an injury, and there is no way to predetermine what type of scar will come from a specific injury, says Dr. Michele Farber , a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group.

Atrophic scars

Atrophic scars, also known as depressed scars, are indented on the surface of the skin. Usually associated with acne, this type of scar is caused by loss of collagen during the healing process and results in the thinning of the skin, says Dr. Robyn Gmyrek , a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City. These scars can also sometimes appear lighter than the color of your skin if there is not enough collagen production during the wound healing and skin remodeling process, says Garshick. 

There are three different types of atrophic scars based on their shape, according to our experts: 

• Icepick scars are narrow, deep scars in the skin that form a hole or V-shape.
• Boxcar scars are square-shaped depressions with sharply defined edges. 
• Rolling scars have sloping edges. “They are usually a bit wider and give a curved atrophic appearance to the skin,” says Gmyrek. 

Stretch marks are also a type of atrophic scar caused by the skin stretching or shrinking quickly. These scars are thin and slightly indented, and can appear white, pink, purple or blue in color, according to our experts.

Hypertrophic scars

Hypertrophic scars appear raised and thickened on the skin. They usually occur when the body produces too much collagen at the site of the wound during the healing process, according to Farber.

Keloid scars

Like hypertrophic scars, keloids are raised and hairless scars that are usually pink, red or flesh-toned. However, unlike hypertrophic scars, which are contained within the area where the injury once was, keloid scars grow beyond the borders of the original injury, according to Dr. Zakia Rahman , a board-certified dermatologist, clinical professor of dermatology and director of the Resident Laser and Aesthetic Clinic at Stanford Health Care. 

“Scars remodel for up to one year after trauma, but keloids, which are scars that grow out the boundaries of the trauma border, can continue to grow for years,” says McMichael. Keloids might also turn darker than your usual skin color when exposed to the sun, experts say.

Keloids are also the hardest type of scars to treat. “We can remove them and employ lasers, topical therapies and radiation, but they are very unpredictable and have a high recurrence rate,” says Dr. Mara Weinstein Velez , a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor with the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Are color changes a form of scarring?

Residual discoloration or color changes, which usually look like red or brown marks on the skin, are common after an injury, and often discussed interchangeably with scarring. However, they’re not the same: Color changes are easier to treat and will usually go away over time (especially with consistent use of retinoids), but scars are permanent.

Scars can be different colors, too. Some appear brown due to discoloration, while others appear white when pigment is lost, says Garshick. Some scars may initially show up as pink or red on the skin due to new blood vessels forming, she says.

There are two main types of color changes, according to our experts: 

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation , which results from the overproduction of melanin after inflammation on the skin.
• Post-inflammatory erythema , which causes red or pink patches on the skin due to inflammation.

“Oftentimes, patients come in thinking they have scars when really they are just areas of hyper or hypopigmentation,” says Weinstein Velez. “Pigmented areas can take months to improve, but they can resolve over time. But when there is a cut in the skin like a surgical scar or a traumatic scar, or any type of injury that leads to a scar, that will be permanent.”

How to treat scars and color changes at home

Once scars develop, they are permanent, but there are some ways to reduce their appearance. Dermatologists told us the best treatments for scarring are only offered in the dermatologist’s office, and they include lasers and microneedling treatments. 

Depending on the type of injury and extent of the wound, you should first focus on proper wound care to help that top layer of skin heal as quickly as possible, says Rahman. “Keeping that area clean with soap and water and then keeping it covered as much as possible prevents a scab,” she says. You should also always protect scars from the sun. “The last thing you want to do is to develop hyperpigmentation or a burn in the area of new scar tissue,” says Zeichner.

 Below, we list a few treatments available over-the-counter that can help reduce redness, inflammation and itching associated with scars. Keep in mind that drugstore products won’t significantly flatten scars, but rather they prevent them from forming in the first place or reducing redness, according to McMichael. To actually flatten scars, you’ll need prescription topicals, injections or other invasive ambulatory treatments like liquid nitrogen or lasers, she says.

Silicone and hydrocolloids

Silicone — either in the form of sheets, creams or gels — is one of the most effective treatments for reducing the appearance of scars and preventing them from forming, experts told us. Silicone works as an occlusive barrier for the scar, which means it creates a seal over the surface of the skin. It helps keep the area hydrated, protects it from the environment and regulates collagen production to minimize the possibility of a scar forming in the first place, according to Garshick. Silicone also calms the skin, which helps reduce the itching that comes with scarring. However, while it may help with redness, silicone is not very effective at treating pigmentation, says McMichael.

Silicone sheets are most effective at improving scars because they apply gentle pressure and can alleviate tension and soften the scar, says Garshick. You may also come across hydrocolloid dressings, which are very similar to silicone sheets. Hydrocolloids are patches that you can place on an injured area to help heal the critical top layer of the skin faster, says Rahman. They also reduce movement and stretching around the cut or injury — especially in high-tension areas like the chest or back where you’re more likely to get a bad scar — to help the healing process, she says.

Experts told us prescription retinoids like tretinoin (known as Retin-A) and tazarotene have been shown to be effective as a long-term topical treatment to reduce the appearance of color changes, acne scars and stretch marks. “Since retinoids work to help boost collagen production, they can help with textural changes and improve the appearance of discoloration,” says Garshick. However, retinoids aren’t very helpful for deeper scars like hypertrophic scars and keloids, according to McMichael.

Keep in mind that retinoids can be irritating on the skin, so it’s important to avoid overusing it to prevent redness and sensitivity of the skin, says Garshick. Make sure you’re only using it a few times a week, depending on how your skin tolerates the formula.

Retinol, which is available over the counter, can also help reduce the texture of a scar, but it won’t be as effective as stronger prescription retinoids, experts say.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help brighten the skin and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation and discoloration, says Garshick. This ingredient can be great to help minimize older scars because they tend to be darker brown in color, according to Zeichner. However, keep in mind that vitamin C won’t improve the thickness of scars, says McMichael.

Chemical exfoliants

If your main concern is slight textural changes or discoloration, chemical exfoliants can help. These include alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like lactic acid and mandelic acid, and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid, which help unclog pores, exfoliate skin and even out skin tone. AHA/BHA peels are great for fixing uneven skin texture and improve mild discoloration on the skin, according to our experts.

In-office scar treatments

There are certain in-office treatments that dermatologists offer that can help reduce the appearance of both raised and depressed scars over time, including laser resurfacing, microneedling and injectable fillers. Most of these treatments cause a controlled tissue injury that helps the body heal itself, says Rahman.

Atrophic scar treatments

Your dermatologist can treat atrophic scarring with laser resurfacing, which uses light energy to stimulate new collagen and improve the appearance and texture of a scar, says Garshick. Another option is microneedling, which creates small holes in the skin that also help stimulate collagen, she says. You can treat atrophic acne scars with an in-office procedure called subcision, which lifts the scar tissue upward to reduce the depression in the skin. You can also consider filler injections to replace volume if a scar is indented, according to our experts. 

Ice pick scars are harder to treat because they’re deeper in the skin. To improve this type of atrophic scar, dermatologists recommend a Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars (CROSS) procedure, which uses trichloroacetic acid to help boost collagen production. You’ll need several treatments performed at least one month apart in order to see results, says Gmyrek.

Hypertrophic and keloid scar treatments

Hypertrophic scars and keloids can be treated with laser resurfacing treatments to remodel the thick scar tissue. This is usually in conjunction with steroid injections, which can help soften and flatten the scar, as well as decrease inflammation and improve redness, says Garshick. Studies also show that injecting a scar with botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox) provides the same benefits as steroid injections in terms of reducing redness and itching, says Rahman.

Hyperpigmentation and discoloration treatments

Certain lasers can help reduce those color changes, along with prescriptions that increase cell turnover like retinoids and skin lightening creams like hydroquinone can help fade those red or brown spots, according to experts. Lasers, chemical peels and lightening creams may be helpful in cases of discoloration. In-office chemical peels performed by dermatologists and aestheticians help with skin turnover and can treat pigmentation left behind by scars, says Garshick.

Frequently asked questions

Some scars can fade naturally with time while others can be more persistent. “Even the best treatments won’t necessarily make a scar disappear completely, but [they] certainly can improve the appearance of the scar,” says Garshick. Scars can take a full year to settle, so keep in mind that even with in-office treatments, the scar might take a while to improve and can continue to improve over time, she says.

It takes several weeks or even months of continuous treatment for scars to improve in appearance and texture using OTC treatments, says Zeichner. “After several weeks, if you’re not seeing the types of improvement that you were looking for, you can touch base with a dermatologist for professional help,” he says.

Typically, the older the scar, the harder it is to treat , according to our experts.

Keloid scars are the hardest type of scars to treat because they’re unpredictable and can return even after treatment, according to Weinstein Velez. Stretch marks are also a challenge, even when paired with topicals and in-office therapies, according to Rahman: “Think of it as like a fault line on the earth — as you're growing, the skin basically splits, and there's abnormal, really thinned out elastic fibers and collagen, so getting that stimulated is tough,” she says.

Scar tissue is the same, regardless of whether it is on the face or the body. However, “areas of the body that have more movement tend to heal less well compared to areas of the body with less movement,” says Zeichner. Movement stretches the wound as it’s healing, so the scar will usually be larger in size, he says.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Dr. Joshua Zeichner is a board-certified dermatologist, associate professor of dermatology and the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital. He specializes in cosmeceuticals, skin care and cosmetic dermatology.
• Dr. Amy McMichael is a board-certified dermatologist and professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine .
• Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
• Dr. Robyn Gmyrek is a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City.
• Dr. Michele Farber is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia. She specializes in skin cancer treatments, as well as general, cosmetic and procedural dermatology.
• Dr. Zakia Rahman is a board-certified dermatologist, clinical professor of dermatology and director of the Resident Laser and Aesthetic Clinic at Stanford Health Care. She also serves as the assistant chief at the Palo Alto VA Medical Center-Livermore.
• Dr. Mara Weinstein Velez is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor with the University of Rochester Medical Center. Her areas of research include cosmetic dermatology, skin of color, scarring and hair growth.

Why trust NBC Select?

Mili Godio is an updates editor at NBC Select who has covered a variety of skin care topics, including products for rosacea , keratosis pilaris and cystic acne . For this article, Godio spoke to seven dermatologists to narrow down the best scar treatments, and highlighted their recommendations for the best products to consider.

Enter to win an iPad from NBC Select . We’re giving away an iPad to one lucky winner who fills out our  survey about shopping interests and habits .  ( NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Legal residents of the 50 US states or DC who are 18 or older. Ends 5/31/24. Limit 1 entry per person. Sponsors: NBC Select and NBCUniversal Media, LLC.)

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

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Pop Culture Happy Hour

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Pop Culture

You know it when you see it: here are some movies that got sex scenes right.

Linda Holmes

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist. Niko Tavernise/Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures hide caption

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist.

What makes a good sex scene? It can be easier spot bad sex, but Aisha Harris, Christina Tucker, Ronald Young, Jr. and I tried to focus on the good this week on Pop Culture Happy Hour. You can listen to our full conversation here. (We didn't originally plan for this episode to run the same week as our episode about Challengers , which is out in theaters now, but it's a happy coincidence, since that film has gotten a lot of attention — probably too much, relative to its other merits — for the sex scenes involving its three leads. It's really very good .)

Movie Reviews

Watch a tense romantic triangle play out on the tennis court in 'challengers'.

It's often very obvious when a sex scene is bad, just like when a sex scene in a book is bad. It can get so uncomfortable to watch that you have to leave the room (and not in a way that feels true to the story). One of my personal tells for a bad sex scene is when all I can think about is how hard the actors are trying to persuade me that the characters are having a good time. For example, there has been much good discussion in recent years about Showgirls being a more interesting and competent project than it originally got credit for, but in that one pool scene (if you know it, you know it), all I can see is the effort.

Lauren Bacall And The 'Sex? What Sex?' Kind Of Movie Sex

It's not always as clear which scenes are good . That's partly because they serve so many different functions, all of which look different, and all of which can be effective. Furthermore, you don't want to confuse whether a sex scene is used well in a film with whether it's hot to you personally, despite the fact that there is overlap between those considerations.

In the 'Last Dance,' Magic Mike leaves his thong-and-dance routine behind

Here's what I mean: When Aisha talks about the sequence near the beginning of Magic Mike's Last Dance , it's not irrelevant that the scene is, to her (and to me), hot. But it also makes sense in the context of the film and the franchise, partly because of the way it sets up the power dynamic between Mike (Channing Tatum) and Max (Salma Hayek Pinault). Mike is older now, he knows more, and the way he approaches a lap dance is actually different than in earlier movies.

And not all good sex scenes are hot in the same ways. The one I mentioned in the episode, from the romantic drama Love & Basketball , is sexy, yes. But it's also a scene between young adults (the talented basketball players Monica and Quincy, played by Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps), and as such, it incorporates a tentativeness that's not present in Magic Mike's Last Dance , to say the least. As Ronald pointed out during our discussion, that sex scene is quite different from one that takes place later in Monica and Quincy's relationship, when they're older and know each other better. That certainly feels true to real life, but it's not always reflected in Hollywood films, where I would tentatively estimate that 90% of on-screen sex is more idealized and thus less intimate than real-life sex, in part because it isn't allowed to change over the course of a relationship.

Movie Interviews

'like it or not, we live in oppenheimer's world,' says director christopher nolan.

Even further from the hotness of the lap dance scene is Ronald's pick: the imagination of Kitty Oppenheimer (Emily Blunt) running wild in Oppenheimer. While her husband (Cillian Murphy) is being interrogated, she pictures him having sex with his mistress, Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh). It goes by quickly enough that it might seem like a Christopher Nolan flourish for flourish's sake, but it serves the purpose of letting you feel her pain over her husband's affair. Her relationship with Robert doesn't look especially romantic in the film, let alone sexually charged; she finds herself consumed by the idea that he was having hot sex with this other woman, and she locks eyes with her vision of a naked Tatlock and finds herself tormented. It's not really the intent of the scene to titillate the audience, just to give specificity to the shape of Kitty's preoccupation with the affair.

What makes a good sex scene?

Christina raised another really important point, which is that sex scenes also collide with viewers at very specific moments. Her example from Bound , and the scenes between Violet (Jennifer Tilly) and Corky (Gina Gershon), touches on (among other things) her own history. It's an underappreciated aspect of the sex-in-movies discourse: representation matters in these scenes as much as anywhere else. I always wish I saw more sex scenes in movies that featured a broader variety of body types; it's still really rare to see ones that feature anybody who is even average sized. This is one of the reasons I'm curious about the upcoming season of Bridgerton , which places its focus on the gorgeous and curvaceous Penelope (Nicola Coughlan).

Looking for 'nomance': Study finds teens want less sex in their TV and movies

Good sex scenes are like any other kind of good filmmaking, honestly: it comes down to execution with purpose and care, done relative to whatever the function of the scene might be.

Whether that's spiciness or conflict or relationship growth or (as in the case of Bound ) setting up a steamy neo-noir story that wouldn't be the same if it weren't hot as heck, form follows function, ideally.

This piece also appeared in NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour newsletter. Sign up for the newsletter so you don't miss the next one, plus get weekly recommendations about what's making us happy.

Listen to Pop Culture Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts and Spotify .