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Discover the best hidden treasures of France

The 20 Best hidden gems in France 

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Here is your selection of the best hidden treasures of France , the most beautiful secret places of France .

Book your flights , your accommodation and your  tours and activities in France at the best price and discover the Best Secret Travel Destinations in France such as the cities of Saint Cirq Lapopie or Eze.

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Places to Visit in France ,  Best Things to do in France ,  Most Beautiful Beaches in France ,  Best Castles in France  but also the  Best Christmas Markets in France  and  Best Ski Resorts in France . 

1. Eguisheim

A 15-minute drive from Colmar and only a 1hour drive from Strasbourg, Eguisheim is one of of your Best Secret Places in France .

With its colourful facades, typical Alsatian houses and stork nests, Eguisheim is a destination straight out of a fairy tale .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Basel or Strasbourg (1h by car or train) as well as your accommodation and your tours and activities in Alsace , such as a " Half-day wine tour from Strasbourg ". 

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Restaurant L'Auberge Alsacienne " with modern rooms and a traditional restaurant. 

2. Monet's Garden

Giverny - Normandy

Once in a while, the hand of man intervenes to create a magnificent landscape and sublime gardens that is now seen as one of the most beautiful Secret Places in France .

Without a penny in his pocket, the painter Claude Monet had to leave Paris and moved in as a single tenant in this house located in Normandy. 

The property underwent major landscaping work including the creation of a pond and the building of three greenhouses. Monet finally acquired the house after 7 years of tenancy. These gardens were to inspire him with his most famous paintings including "Les Nymphéas".

Come relax in this soothing and inspiring place just 1 hour’s drive from Paris and book your flights and accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in France such as a " Half-day trip to Giverny from Paris " and disccover one of the Best Hidden Gems in France .

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Paris (1h by car).

  Where to stay:   " Le Jardin des Plumes " located in Giverny. Monet's house and gardens are only 500 m from the Hotel. 

Cote d'Azur

Close to the border with Italy, Menton is one of the most colourful destinations in France and one of the Best Secret Travel Destinations in France . 

Less famous than Nice or Cannes , Menton has nevertheless become one of the most famous tourist resorts of the Côte d'Azur.

Located just a 50 minutes’ drive from Nice Airport, Menton is a perfect destination for a multi-day stay or a day trip.

Book your flights but also your  accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in the French Riviera such as the discovery of the city of Grasse and the possibility of making your own perfume at a Perfume Factory.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Nice Airport (50 min by car).  

  Where to stay:  " Best Western Plus Hotel Prince de Galles " located in the seaside town of Menton. 

Located an hour away by car from Saint-Brieuc airport and Rennes airport, Cancale is one of the Best Hidden Gems in France .

This small town of 5 000 inhabitants is visited every year by travellers from all over the world who come to taste its wild oysters, enjoy its turquoise blue waters and its magnificent beaches.

Cancale is only a 50 minutes’ drive from le Mont Saint-Michel .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Rennes (1h by car) and hotel at the best price. 

  Where to stay:  " La Mere Champlain " located in the heart of Cancale. 

5. Riquewihr

Riquewihr is one of the most beautiful villages in Alsace and one of the best off-the-beaten-track places in France.

The tourist success of this small village is largely due to its intact architectural heritage spared by the two world wars.

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Strasbourg or Basel (1h by car), your accommodation at the best price and your  tours and activities in Alsace , such as a " full-day wine tour & tastings from Strasbourg ". 

  Where to stay:  " Maison Rebleuthof " a luxury apartment in the heart of Riquewihr's Old Town. 

6. Estérel Massif

Golden Island - Var

This imposing volcanic mountain massif is one of the most incredible natural wonders in France and one of the Best Secret Places to Visit in France .

The Massif de l'Esterel is located in the Var, a department known for the beauty of its landscapes and its beaches which have been elected as being among the best beaches in France . 

The best way to enjoy these landscapes is to hike. You may see deer, wild boar or turtles and be overwhelmed by the scents of thyme, rosemary, lavender and mimosa. 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Nice (40 min by car) and your accommodation  at the best price in the region.  

  Where to stay:   " Tiara Miramar Beach Hotel & Spa ". This design hotel features a free onsite spa.  

This is one of the best hidden gems in France but also one of the most beautiful French villages.

The village of Eze is located a few minutes from the very famous city of Nice and therefore only a 40 minutes’ drive from Nice airport.

Eze is a 13th century village hung on a rocky peak facing the Mediterranean. We come here for the beauty of the landscapes and for the authentic character of this small village and its medieval houses.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Nice (25min by car), your  accommodation at the best price in Nice and your tours and activities in Nice such as a “ Day trip to the Verdon Gorge from Nice ”. 

  Where to stay:  " Eze Hermitage Hotel " offering panoramic views of the area and a beautiful swimming pool.

8. L'ile Louet

Carantec - Morlaix - Brittany

This magnificent and tiny island is one of the Best Secret Places to Visit in France . It is located in Carantec, Morlaix bay, in Brittany.

The name of this island is not its first owner’s, Charles Cornic, but  his best friend’s, Monsieur Louët.

It is now possible to stay overnight on this tiny island managed by the Carantec tourist office, but the place is often fully booked; we advise you to keep that in mind and book in advance.

Book your accommodation at the best price in  Carantec or elsewhere in Brittany and discover one of the best hidden gems in France .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Brest-Bretagne Airport ( 40 min by car).

  Where to stay:   " Hôtel de Carantec " facing the beachfront.

Colmar is not really a secret destination , nor is it unknown but it is full of hidden gems which you will love.

Over the years this beautiful city has become one of the most visited destinations in France . It is no coincidence that travellers from all over the world book their holidays in Colmar. They also voted the city " Best Destination for Spring ".

We fell in love with Colmar and have published a small travel guide on the best things to do & see in Colmar .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Basel or Strasbourg (1h by car) and travel by train or by car to discover Colmar.  

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Le Colombier Suites ". 

10. La Roque Gageac

Located in the Dordogne region, one of the most beautiful regions of France, La Roque Gageac is one of the  best off-the-beaten-track destinations in France.

Enjoy your stay in the region to explore the most beautiful places of the Dordogne Valley such as the sacred city of Rocamadour, the village of Collonges-la-Rouge and many others.

  How to get there:  Book your flights for Bergerac Dordogne Perigord airport 1h by car) and your accommodation  at the best price.

  Where to stay:  We advise you to book in the guest house " Maison d'hôtes Anne Fouquet ".

11. Menenham Village

Kerlouan - Brittany

This is not really a village but rather a hamlet. Meneham located in Finistere in Brittany is one of the Best Secret Places to Visit in France . It is known for the house between two rocks built to monitor the coast.

The entire hamlet of Menham was renovated about ten years ago and today it welcomes travellers wishing to discover how life was at the seaside in the 18th century.

If you are not passionate about history this is not a problem, you will be seduced by the beauty of the landscapes, the turquoise waters of the mer d’iroise and the wilderness of this Brittany coast.

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Brest (30 min by car) and your accommodation at the best price in Brittany.

  Where to stay:  We recommend the hotel " Relais du Silence Hotel de la Mer ", an ecological hotel located on the seafront. 

12. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

One of the most beautiful villages in France is located just 1h30 from Toulon airport in the Lot department.

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a small medieval village of 200 inhabitants. The village has also inspired artists like André Breton who lived there.

Explore in his footsteps the narrow streets and medieval houses of one of the best hidden gems in France . 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Toulon and your accommodation at the best price.   

  Where to stay:  Book at the " Charme et jardin cœur St Cirq " highly rated for its location in the heart of Saint-Cirq Lapopie. 

13. Dune du Pilat

Arcachon - Occitanie

With a height of 106 m and a length of 600 m, the Pilat Dune is the highest dune in Europe and one of the Best Hidden Gems in France .

The largest dune in the world is still 5 times larger but the beauty of the Dune of Pilat is truly awesome. Size aside, its most impressive feature is its presence, right there amidst a beautiful forest of pine trees.

Go down at the foot of the dune and you will arrive on the basin of Arcachon, world famous for its oysters.

A few steps from the dune you can eat at the restaurant "La Coorniche" renovated by the French designer Philippe Starck . You can also book your room at the best price at the 5-star hotel " La Coorniche ". 

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Bordeaux  (50 min by car). 

  Where to stay:   " La Coorniche " renovated by the French designer Philippe Starck.

14. Rocamadour

The Dordogne valley is a favourite destinations for travellers exploring France. You will fall in love with the villages of Rocamadour, Carennac, Colonges-la-Rouge and Meyronne, ranked among the Best Secret Places in France .

During your stay you will taste the best of French gastronomy and exceptional wines.

There is also food for the spirit as the Dordogne Valley is rich in exceptional monuments, medieval castles and its famous half-timbered houses.

Guided tours will take you some of the most beautiful places in the Dordogne Valley .

  How to get there:   Book your flights today for "Brive-Dordogne Valley"  airport (40min) and your hotel, guesthouse or B&B , at the best price in the Dordogne Valley. 

  Where to stay:   The guest house " Château de Maraval " is perfect for an unforgettable stay in this region of France. 

You will find the small village of Nonza in the South of Corsica. Located only 1hour drive from Bastia airport, Nonza is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France .

Come and enjoy the Mediterranean climate and discover one of the best hidden gems in France .

Below the village you can enjoy the beach of Nonza. There is always room for sunbathing since Nonza has only 73 inhabitants.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Bastia Airport (1h by car), your accommodation at the best price and your tours & activities in Corsica , such as a " Private tour of Bastia with a local ". 

  Where to stay:  If you want to stay in Nonza we advise you to book at the " Hotel de la Corniche " with a clear view of the valley and the sea.

16. Bonifacio

Bonifacio  is certainly one of the most beautiful secret destinations in France . The island of beauty, the other name for Corsica, is itself one of the most beautiful islands in Europe.

Corsica is a welcoming and self-respecting destination. Nature is the main treasure of this island which counts among the most beautiful beaches in France but also the best  hiking trails  of Europe. 

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  for the "Figari-South Corsica" airport (30 min by car) located in the south of Corsica and discover Bonifacio but also the sublime islands of Lavezzi.  

  Where to stay:  " Solemare " offers views of the old port and the Citadel and you can enjoy its heated swimming pool and air-conditioned rooms.

17. Sénanques

Gordes - Luberon

The Notre-Dame de Sénanque abbey is located in the town of Gordes, awarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

You will be able to visit the two places, the Abbey Notre-Dame de Sénanque and the village of Gordes and its famous ‘gories’ on the same day.

Come visit this place in spring and early summer when lavender is in bloom! 

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Avignon (30 min by car) or Marseille (50min)

  Where to stay:  Stay at " Hotel Les Bories & S pa " and pamper yourself like a star.

18. Collioure

Pyrénées Orientales

Only a few km from the Spanish border, Collioure is one of the best hidden gems in France .

Collioure is a peaceful destination where the 3,000 inhabitants among them many artists, live in harmony with nature and the sea.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Perpignan (the airport is located 40 minutes by car from Collioure) as,well as  your accommodation  at the best price.

  Where to stay  " Hotel Madeloc " located 10 minutes’ walk from the seaside.  

19. Plougrescant

Cotes d'Armor - Brittany

Plougrescant is only a 50 minutes’ drive from Saint-Brieuc airport. Located on the Côte de Granit Rose in the Côtes-d'Armor, Plougrescant is a coastal town ranked among the best hidden gems of France .

This peninsula is known for this house wedged between two rocks but you can also see a house on a tiny island.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Saint-Brieuc Airport (50 min by car). 

  Where to stay:  Located a few minutes from Plougrescant, stay at " Hotel des Rochers .  

20. Le Puy en Velay 

Auvergne Rhône-Alpes - France

The Saint-Michel rock on which culminates the church of Puy en Velay is one of the symbols of Puy En Velay, one of the best hidden gems in France .

A land of spirituality, Puy-en-Velay attracts pilgrims from all over the world but also lovers of lace, an ancestral know-how still mastered by a few lacemakers who create refined and 100% artisanal lace.

Passionate about history? Do not miss the Renaissance celebrations of the King of the Bird which take place every year in mid-September.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Lyon Airport (2h by car).

  Where to stay:   " The House of Lake Fugeres ". Situated in the best rated area in Le Puy en Velay.

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Hidden France: where to stay and what to do off the beaten track

If you dream of salt pans and chalets on stilts, wild heather-clad hillsides and car-free isles … Hidden … Greece | Croatia | Italy | Portugal

F rance, the world’s most popular tourist destination, is getting back on track this summer with a focus (and a €50m government investment) on eco-friendly holidays, slow travel and sustainable tourism. That means going beyond the usual hotspots to an unexplored France of bamboo forests, pink salt pans, chalets on stilts, prehistoric horses and maybe a weekend as a lighthouse keeper.

Tiny islands, Brittany

Brittany’s tourist numbers are set to surge this summer after two years of coronavirus, so this is a good time to head to one of the tiny islands off the west coast for a few nights of stargazing with puffins and gulls.

A 90-minute ferry ride from Brest, Île Molène has no cars or bikes and is only 1,200 metres long. It’s a place for short hikes, watching the fishing boats in the tiny harbour and trying fried fish at Au Vent des îles . Among the slate-roofed cottages in the village is the Musée du Drummond Castle (open every afternoon by appointment), dedicated to a British ship that sank off Molène in 1896. All but three of the 242 people aboard drowned and 29 are buried in the local cemetery.

Part of the Molène archipelago, the Île de Quéménès , is only 300 metres wide and inhabited by just one family, who run an organic farm and guesthouse. It’s a perfect stay for people who want to paint, play board games and fish off the rocks.

Île Vierge, a mile off the mainland at Plouguerneau, takes on the full force of the north Atlantic and has two lighthouses, one of which is the tallest “traditional” lighthouse in Europe, with 365 steps to the top (open April-Oct). The other can be rented out. The island is a haven for birds and has a few tiny pebble beaches.

For bird-lovers, a boat leaves the Trestraou beach in Perros-Guirec for the Île Rouzic on a round trip (no disembarking) to watch thousands of puffins, kittiwakes, shearwaters, boobies and razorbills dive into the water between the bobbing grey seals.

Where to stay

Eco-friendly huts at Les Refuges de Mer (from €15pp) are a 15-minute walk – only possible at low tide – from Molène on the tiny islet of Lédénez Vraz. The refuges use only harvested rainwater, and electricity comes from solar panels.

On Quéménès, the eco-friendly guesthouse (from €588 for two or €2,450 for the whole house) has three bedrooms and the price includes a full-board, two-night, three-day stay, fishing rods, binoculars and pick-up from Molène island.

On Île Vierge, La Maison des gardiens de phare (from €550 for two nights) is the former lighthouse keepers’ cottage, transformed into a eco-sustainable holiday let sleeping nine.

Ferry company Penn Ar Bed sails once a day to Molène from Brest and Le Conquet, while Vedettes des Abers runs passenger services between Plouguerneau and Île Vierge.

Canal de Bourgogne , Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

It may not be one of France’s celebrated waterways, but the Canal de Bourgogne, which runs through the Côte-d’Or and Yonne, passes by chateaux, abbeys, forges and medieval villages, and is the perfect length for a week’s cycling or walking holiday. Most visitors come to Burgundy for the wine, which leaves the museums and canal towpath relatively empty.

Tonnerre, a good starting point 100km north-west of Dijon, is only an hour and 40 minutes by train from Paris and perfect for exploring the 16th-century Château de Tanlay (guided visits only) and the Château d’Ancy le Franc , a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture which has sculpted courtyards and gardens, 17th-century murals, and runs cookery courses in the same kitchens that created meals for Louis XIV.

Built on a pink granite outcrop, Semur-en-Auxois is far enough from Chablis and Beaune to be off the wine trail and has a handsome gothic church, solid ramparts and stone bridges. It is famous for holding the annual Course de la Bague , the oldest horse race in France (it began in 1639) and the Course des Chausses, where locals run through the cobbled streets dressed in medieval tabards and jester’s stockings, a race that dates back to 1369.

Nearby is Grande Forge de Buffon , an 18th-century steelworks with waterwheel, and fairytale Châteauneuf-en-Auxois , a walled village with a five-tower, 12th-century chateau, complete with moat and dungeon.

For cyclists, Véli-Bourgogne has bike hire at several locations along the canal (€20 a day, €104 for seven days), and La Bicyclette Verte can organise an entire six-day, five-night tour, including hotels. Visitors can also take an electric boat for a two-hour cruise, or head to the nearest large town, Dijon, and drop by its brand new gastronomy and wine centre , which hosts gourmet food galleries, cooking demos, a library of 10,000 cookbooks and sommelier training.

In Semur-en-Auxois, the medieval Hotel Relais de la Côte d’Or has doubles from €95 room-only. Petite Forge de Buffon offers rural gîtes from €90 (sleeping four) and €120 (nine), and Lodges du canal de Bourgogne has five tree houses and towpath huts from €185.

Andon and Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey , Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

A 90-minute zigzagging drive from Nice, beyond the hills of Grasse, is a landscape of grey peaks, pine forests and gorges – a prehistoric setting enhanced by the grazing bison and wild Przewalski horses at La Réserve biologique des Monts d’Azur in Andon.

This organic nature reserve was started almost 20 years ago by vet Patrice Longour and his wife, Alena, who took over a former hunting reserve in the Parc naturel régional des Préalpes d’Azur . Its 700 hectares are the backdrop for a rewilding programme that promotes sustainable tourism. Visitors can stay in wooden eco-lodges, a “bioclimatic” villa, or rooms above the organic restaurant. Stays can include a safari walk (or horse-drawn calèche ride) among the bison, wild horses, boar, elk and roe deer that roam the forests and prairies of the reserve. It’s an amazing experience, especially the sight of snappy Przewalski stallions charging around the pastures.

The pre-Alps regional park also encompasses Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, a popular village for hikers and mountain bikers. Three kilometres from the centre is the Grotte de Baume Obscure , open every day in June, July and August). Visitors can wander alone through the cave’s narrow passages, led by a fairy-flute soundtrack and periodic spotlight illuminations of stalactites, potholes and rock pools. It’s not for the faint-hearted, though, as there are narrow gangways and steep staircases along the 700-metre trail, everything is dripping and tiny bats hang overhead near the exit. Once out, there’s a gift shop selling fossils and jewellery and a snack zone for hungry children.

A short drive north-east is the Calern plateau in Caussols, whose observatory , is open for visits on Sunday afternoons. Tickets include entry to the giant telescopes and a walk in the moonscape setting (visits in English are available). The nearby Auberge de Caussols serves rustic food in a homely dining room.

For a more physical experience, the Estéron River gorge is ideal for canyoning from the village of Aiglun. Altitude 06 runs five-hour canyoning sessions for €80pp. One of the region’s best hikes is up to Le Castellaras de Thorenc , a three-hour trek to the ruins of a perched medieval village with amazing views of the Pays de Grasse.

Visitors can stay in various buildings at the Monts d’Azur reserve (half-board from €129pp). La Cascade (doubles from €65) in nearby Courmes has rooms overlooking the Gorges du Loup with a pétanque court, a pool and homecooked dinners.

La Lozère and Anduze , Occitanie

In his 1879 Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes , Robert Louis Stevenson arrives in La Lozère and his first instinct is to rid himself of his clothes and “bathe my naked body in the mountain air and water”. La Lozère remains one of France’s wildest, least-touristy regions, with a volcanic landscape of heather-clad hillsides, green meadows, dense chestnut forests and fast-flowing rivers – and there are still donkeys for hire.

Lozère’s capital, Mende, is known for its croquants (almond biscuits) and coupétado , a bread-and-butter pudding made with prunes and cognac, both good mountain sustenance before an adventure in the Parc national des Cévennes . Continuing Stevenson’s journey south (on foot or mountain bike), travellers pass through the Protestant stronghold of Le Pont-de-Montvert, where there’s an eco-museum about the area (open July and August), and, for competent hikers, a route up to the summit of Mont Aigoual, site of France’s last inhabited meteorological observatory (open May to September, free entry).

There is also great hiking around weird rock formations at the Chaos de Nîmes-le Vieux , but for those who fancy something gentler, or are put off by the annual 170 days of rain recorded on Mont Aigoual, the town of Anduze, a short drive east, is lively and attractive. Its 1920s steam train runs to Saint-Jean-du-Gard and stops off at the town’s bamboo plantation. Started in the mid-19th century by local botanist Eugène Mazel, the Bambouseraie now has more than 1,000 varieties of bamboo, an avenue of 40-metre sequoias and a treetop net walkway (open every day, adult €13.90, over-six years €9.90). Anduze, on the banks of the Gardon river, has a 17th-century pagoda fountain in Place du Marché. The whitewashed vaulted cellar at Le Tife-Tafe cafe is good for a craft beer and a Cévennes salad of walnuts, goat’s cheese and sweet onions.

Where to stay On Mont Lozère, the Maison Victoire offers half-board for €124 for two and is part of group of local campsites, gîtes and B&Bs. In Anduze, Le Garage des Cévennes (doubles from €92 room only) is a cool hotel-cafe-restaurant doubling as a motorbike-parts design workshop.

Gruissan and Narbonne , Aude, Occitanie

On the Mediterranean between Montpellier and Perpignan, Gruissan is a colourful blend of smart French seaside resort and American suburbia .

French film buffs may recognise Gruissan from the beachfront chalet in the opening scenes of Jean-Jacques Beineix ’s erotic, unsettling Betty Blue (37°2 le matin). Betty sets the chalet alight after an argument, but there are more than 1,000 similar wooden shacks, all built on stilts that form a vast, floating chalet-park. It’s a striking sight: poetic, multicoloured and unlike anything else in France.

Behind Gruissan’s beaches are its salt pans, huge pink and mauve rectangular lakes, dotted with flamingos and sauniers bent double as they load salt crust into wheelbarrows. Trottup offers tours on big-wheeled electric scooters around the salt lakes and forests (two hours, €49) and electric boats can be rented along the quayside (€35 an hour for a five-seater or €110 for three hours in a seven-seater Scoop).

There’s a bracing hiking excursion to the Gouffre de l’Oeil Doux , where steep limestone cliffs plunge into a natural emerald pool. Swimming is prohibited, but it’s a geological curiosity and a good spot for a picnic under the parasol pines.

Ten-minutes’ drive further inland is Narbonne, once capital of Rome’s first colony in Gaul and now the principal city in France’s newly named Côte du Midi. Narbo Via , a museum dedicated to Roman artefacts, opened last year on the outskirts of the city. The Norman Foster + Partners-designed building includes a gallery wall made up of 760 ancient funerary blocks of stone (adults €8, free for under 26s and combined entrance with Amphoralis, a Roman workshop for producing amphora and the Horreum, Narbonne’s underground Roman grain store, is €13).

Narbonne is spared the deluge of the summertime coach parties that descend on the nearby fortified town of Carcassonne. It’s a charming, provincial city with some colossal structures, the Archbishops’ Palace and Gothic cathedral , the more “bijou” Pont des Marchands and the birthplace of singer-songwriter Charles Trénet . Trénet is best known for composing La Mer (Beyond the Sea), which he wrote while on a train passing the lagoons of the nearby coastline.

Gruissan’s wooden chalets can be rented through Abritel (two-bedroom chalet from €80 a night). In Narbonne, the former Carmelite Convent (doubles from €55) has stylish rooms and apartments close to the centre, and Villa Ambrosia has a hot tub, Zen garden and indoor pool (doubles from €115).

Baccarat and Lunéville, Grand Est

Baccarat is an important stop on the decorative arts route, which runs through Alsace and Lorraine in the north-east of France and includes Nancy for its art nouveau, plus fine carpentry, ceramics, the glass museum in Saint-Louis-lès-Bitche (site of the first glassmaker in France; open Wednesday to Monday) and the Lalique museum in Wingen-sur-Moder (open daily April-Oct; Tues-Sun rest of the year) on the northern side of the Vosges natural regional park .

The Baccarat company, which takes its name from the town on the banks of the Meurthe River, was founded in 1764 to produce soda glass for windows but switched to focusing on exclusive lead crystalware when it was acquired by a Belgian company in 1817. The Baccarat crystal museum (open daily July-August) has more than 2,000 pieces in gleaming showcases, and furnaces are fired up regularly in the workshops opposite.

The town’s modern riverside church of Saint-Rémy has 20,000 pieces of coloured Baccarat crystal in its stained-glass windows.

To the north-west is Lunéville, which was once celebrated for its decorative faïence potttery, but has become better known for the enormous Château de Lunéville . The “Versailles of Lorraine” has extensive parterre gardens and three of France’s most notable Enlightenment philosophers, Voltaire, Rousseau and Montesquieu, stayed there. The deposed Polish king, Stanislaw Leszczynski, lived on a country estate and his penchant for dipping his brioche into a sweet-wine syrup led to his pastry chef creating the first rum baba. It’s on the dessert menu at Le Lunéville restaurant, which also does quiche lorraine and foie gras marinated in the local gewurztraminer wine.

East of Baccarat in Badonviller, Les Cabanes du Lac du Pierre-Percée (doubles from €160 B&B) has cabins, treehouses and chalets on the lake. Domaine Ouréa in Sainte-Barbe has deluxe ecolodges for two in the middle of a forest from €269 a night.

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Off The Beaten Path France – 8 Unique Places

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The Best Non-Touristy Places in France

Are you fed up of reading the same tired destination ideas for France? Do you crave the road less travelled? Check out our top, less touristy and off the beaten track France spots for your next holiday.

You may not know this about France, but it is the most visited country in the world.  Paris , the Alps, Provence, Herault, the Loire Valley and Brittany attract the lion’s share of tourists, and in the summer months these destinations can feel uncomfortably crowded, with French road trippers packing the roads, over-booked hotels and queues for restaurants. 

Away from these places, France is a vast and often sparsely populated country, especially in rural areas. Small towns and villages still enjoy a slower pace of life, where simple pleasures take precedence. Warm ripe tomatoes picked from the vine, fresh morning bread and boules, the ubiquitous French game played in every village square when the evenings are long and sultry.

There are few places where you can  get away from tourism altogether , but these are our pick of fantastic France off the beaten track destinations where you can enjoy a more peaceful vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Hidden France Map

If you like… then head for…

Provence >> aveyron & the cevennes, the vendee >> cote d’argent, the loire valley >> cathar country, lyon >> dijon, the riviera >> cap d’ail, the alps >> the pyrenees, bordeaux >> nantes, brittany – the cotentin peninsula.

Is this your first time visiting France? Get all the information you need in our France Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Aveyron & Lozere

With spectacular natural features including deep gorges and high plateaux, this remote corner in southwest France has lots of sheep and a lot fewer people, making it one of the hidden gems of France.

The Grands Causses are a group of four limestone plateaux which are flat and pretty featureless, but form the ‘walls’ of the deep and dramatic gashes in the landscape which separate them, the most famous of which is the Gorge du Tarn.

In these sheltered gorges, away from the blistering heat of the summer, village life is traditional and simple.  

To the east of the Grands Causses, you’ll find the raw and wild Cevennes, together they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an incredible outdoor playground for walkers and kayakers. 

The gorge towns and villages of Aveyron and Lozere are French gems but can get busy in the height of summer, so head for the causses or rivers and you’ll find space and solitude.

• Wander the medieval streets of Conques, the town which inspired the opening scene of the fairy tale Beauty and The Beast.
• Hike the Cirque de Navacelles, a stunning natural wonder.
• Kayak the river Tarn and see the best hidden places in France from the water.
• Drive to the peak of Mont Aigoual, for panoramic views from the Alps to the Pyrenees.
• Take the Steam train of the Cevennes  to the incredible La Bambouseraie for a shady green day out.

Cote d’Argent, Aquitaine

The finest and longest stretch of sandy beach in France, the Côte d’Argent, begins at the mouth of the Gironde, at Soulac-sur-Mer, and ends in the lively surfer town of Hossegor.

With just a handful of houses literally in the sand of the beach, Saint-Girons Plage in the Landes region, is slap bang in the middle of this stunning and unspoilt France coast and a perfect base for exploring the area. 

Stay anywhere along this 230km stretch of pristine beach and you’ll quickly learn to slow the pace and enjoy long days on the sand and water with a surf-board (or body-board for those of us whom surfing passed by) or a good book, in true off the beaten path in France style!

This lengthy ribbon of beach is backed by sand dunes, full of vegetation and shrubs which stop the whole lot disappearing into the thousands of acres of forest behind, planted by Napoleon III for his navy. You can walk for miles along the beach, fly a kite or try your hand at land-sailing if lying around gets boring.

If you crave the bright lights once in a while, head south to trendy Hossegor or more traditional Capbreton, separated only by a channel of water.

• Ride the waves of the mighty Atlantic – whether you surf, body-board or swim, lose yourself in the feeling of being at one with the ocean and the world.
• Take a bike ride along La Velodyssée, a fabulous (and mainly flat) 1200km long cycle route along the entire French Atlantic coast.
• Feast on fat duck, king of Landaise gastronomy. Try the famous pate de foie gras or duck confit.
• Walk for miles along the beach, without seeing another soul, even in August!
• Take a boat trip through the Courant d’Huchet nature reserve between the lake at Leon to the sea.

Cathar Country, Occitanie

One of the most spectacular secret destinations in France can be found in the western corner of the Mediterranean coast and nestled on the fringes of the stunning Pyrenees mountains.

Cathar country loosely covers the area south of Carcassonne to the Spanish border, and refers to followers of a dissident church which flourished in some parts of Europe during medieval times and was particularly popular in the southern half of Occitanie.

To imagine Cathar country is to picture an ancient world in a wild and rugged landscape, littered with castles and caves where monumental battles took place. You wouldn’t be far wrong! Craggy hilltops are home to spectacular fortified castles and picturesque medieval villages.

During the Albigensian crusades, when the Cathar church and its followers were wiped out, many castles and other fortified positions served as strongholds for the besieged. 

A must-see of the area is the fabulous walled city of Carcassonne, which sets the tone of the era of the crusades, although this is definitely on the tourist trail.

Many stop at the old town of Carcassonne and never venture further south, but head into the foothills of the Pyrenees to find the ruins of at least twelve other stunning castles, including the breathtaking Peyrepertuse, the last Cathar stronghold in 1255.

An added bonus of taking a trip south is the liberal sprinkling of wild swimming gorges and thermal waters which have analgesic and decongestant properties, and are a blissful way to cool off at the end of a hot French summer’s day.

• A visit to the Disneyesque La Cite at Carcassonne is obligatory, but we prefer the ville-basse (new town) with it’s vibrant and non-touristy Saturday morning farmers market.
• Swimming in the refreshing clear turquoise waters of the Gorge de Verdoble or the Gorge de Galamus on a hot summers day.
• Visit the charming town of Lagrasse, wander through the narrow streets and be delighted by the 14th century covered market and arts and crafts shops.
• Adrenalin junkies should head for Quillan and kayak the white water of the Aude in spring.
• Enjoy the delicious local Vins de Pays, which can be drunk in the very villages in which it is produced.

Dijon, Bourgogne-Franche-Comte

One of our favourite French cities , Dijon is a perfect destination and base for wine lovers and foodies alike. Nestled in the heart of historic Burgundy and surrounded by the vineyards of the Cote d’Or, the region is home to over 3,000 independent winemakers, with vines dating back as far as 600AD. 

Dijon’s late medieval and Renaissance centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, laden with half-timbered houses and elegant palatial buildings, to remind you that this city was once home to the Duchy of Burgundy, a major power in Europe.

The city centre will pull you in and deliver excellent food, a lively street scene and of course, the famous mustard.

Make sure to visit Les Halles market, where the finest of local and regional foods are offered every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday between 6am and 2pm, underneath the glass-ceiling and steel-beamed hall designed by Gustave Eiffel.

Further afield, follow the the Burgundy vineyard trails, la route des vins, and take in some of the most prestigious vineyards of the region. Make sure to visit Beaune, the capital of the Burgundy wine industry.

The old centre is particularly renowned for the Hôtel Dieu, a unique medieval hospice and modern day hospital. The building has a sublime Burgundian roof of multicoloured glazed tiles and is one of the largest medieval civic buildings surviving to this day.

• The superb wine produced in this region can be bought at local caves, after a tasting, for a fraction of prices at home.
• Visit the Chateau de Rochepot, a classic Burgundian castle, restored and embellished in the 19th century. 
• Despite the fact that most of Dijon’s famous mustard is now made in Canada, this city is still foodie heaven. Wandering Les Halles market will tempt your tastebuds, it’s futile to resist!
• Visit the vast and impressive Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, where you can learn about the history of the city.
• Head north to the Burgundy Canal, which links the rivers Yonne and Saone, for a spot of gentle cycling or pleasure boating. 

Cap d’Ail, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

If you’ve always followed the sun but dislike the year round frenzy and crave a more unspoilt south of France, head for Cap d’Ail. The unlikely named ‘garlic cape’ is one of the best offbeat places in France and the Riviera, but without quite the numbers of people that crowd out its slightly more glamorous neighbours.

Bordering the millionaires tiny principality of Monaco, but without the price tag, this south of France hidden gem is home to three fine beaches. 

Mala beach is the most popular, a sheltered cove reached by steep steps and a narrow footpath. It’s worth the trip down (and back up later), for the inviting turquoise water and dramatic limestone cliffs as a backdrop.

Marquet beach is easier to reach on foot and more popular with families, while the naturist Plage Pissarelles is the least busy of the three.

Other than promenading and sunning yourself, Cap d’Ail doesn’t have a whole lot going on, which is part of it’s charm!  You’re perfectly positioned to explore the coast and and take a Provence tour, yet one step removed from the crowds of Cannes, St Tropez and Nice. 

• Take the 45 minute clifftop walk between Mala and Marquet beaches for dramatic sea views and the shade of the pine trees over the path.
• Nip next door to Monaco to see how the other half live and admire the super-yachts in the harbour.
• Drive the Grande Corniche (D2564), sometimes called the Upper Corniche, one of three cliff roads which pass along the Riviera from Nice to Menton. The Grande Corniche is around 500m above sea level, the views of the Mediterranean coast and southern France are simply spectacular.
• Visit the charming and typically Provencal hill town of Eze, with its cobbled streets and pretty squares, it will be busy though!
• Take a kayak out from Plage Mala and enjoy the tranquility of the water and a different perspective of one of the most famous coastlines in the world.

RELATED POST: South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips

The Pyrenees

Sandwiched and shared between France and Spain, the Pyrenees are softer and more inviting than the Alps, although no less dramatic. Head for the Parc National de Pyrenees for jaw-dropping scenery, high peaks and one of the best non touristy things to do in France – hiking!

Less developed than the Alps, you can hike in the paradise of the Pyrenees for hours in summer without seeing another person. The trails are generally well managed and signed.

Some of the classic and best Pyrenees day hikes, such as the Cirque de Gavarnie and Lac de Gaube are child friendly, making this the best part of France to visit if you’re taking a family holiday.

The weather here through June to September is drier, although you’ll miss the perennially snow capped peaks of the Alps providing those ‘wow’ moments. Snow starts to fall above 2,500m in mid-October most years, giving you a long window in which to take a hiking holiday .

Andorra is also worth a visit , for the incredible views of the surrounding 3,000m plus peaks, tax-free shopping and thermal spas, of which there are many!

• Visit in May for the most amazing wild flower displays in the beautiful Pyrenees meadows.
• Take the cable car to the summit of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, and spend the night in in a mountain room for perfect solitude and incredible star-gazing.
• Drive the Col du Tourmalet road, if you dare!
• Take a trip to the pretty medieval town of Saint-Bertrand de Comminges where Roman ruins have been discovered.
• Visit the simple and atmospheric Cathédrale Sainte-Marie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oloron Sainte-Marie.

Nantes, Loire-Atlantique

Nantes is often overlooked as a destination, but this historically important port city that grew rich on the back of the slave trade, is now a lively and innovative town with loads of attractions and and some superb seafood restaurants. It makes for a great weekend getaway from P aris and is also well located for exploring the surrounding countryside and coast of the Vendee.

Must-see attractions are the castle of the Dukes of Brittany, where you can find out about the history of the city, the beautiful Gothic cathedral and the verdant botanical gardens.

For foodies, freshly made crepes are a must. If it’s fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic you’re craving, head for Marche de Talensac, for fish cooked right off the boat.  

One of the best loved attractions is the Ile de Nantes, an urban island in the Loire river, which was an industrial wasteland and is now where the enormous Machines de L’Ile are made.

You’ll find the instantly recognisable steampunk elephant strutting slowly around, carrying squealing children on its back and carousels and machinery that you can control yourself. Visit the fascinating workshop where you are able to glimpse the technicians constructing new creations for shipping across the world.

• The wine of Nantes, Muscadet, is top of the bill in all the bars and restaurants. Visit one of the vineyards outside the city and enjoy a tour and tasting.
• Cruise the Loire estuary to see the 30 plus impactful riverbank sculptures and art installations as you leave the city and head towards the sea.  
• Try a spot of shopping at the gorgeous Passage Pommeraye built in 1843. With its ornate staircase and three floors of statues and gilded galleries, you’ll find plenty of independent boutiques to explore.
• Fill up on traditional crepes, either savoury de ble noir (buckwheat) or the absolutely divine beurre salé (salted caramel).
• Explore the magical Musee Jules Verne, especially good fun with kids!

Cotentin Peninsula, Normandy

Also known as the Cherbourg Peninsula, this jut of land forms part of the northwest coast of France. This land of wilderness is one of the true hidden gems in northern France, with beaches and towns to rival the most dramatic and charming of any found in the country; it is one of our favourite secret France destinations.

Ferry loads of car travellers barrel through every day, on their way to somewhere else more alluring, and miss out on a truly welcoming and peaceful part of France.

Instead of heading south, get off the ferry in Cherbourg and take the road east, to the beautiful little town of Barfleur. Stroll the quaint village and quay before sampling the delicious wild mussels harvested here.

You’ll find many other villages just like Barfleur on the peninsula, where life moves slowly and is intrinsically linked with the sea, earth and climate.

The countryside here is blessed with rich and fertile soil that supports a thriving agricultural industry, which in turn produces some of the best organic food to be had in France. Delicious cheeses, cider and calvados are famous in this region, with locally harvested oysters and mussels also doing their bit for this expanding industry.

• Visit Mont Saint-Michel, a magnificent island monastery and a two hour drive from Cherbourg.
• See the iconic Bayeux Tapestry, a 68-metre work of art, depicting the 1066 Norman conquest of England.
• Head for the haunting D-Day landing sites of Sainte-Mere-Eglise and Utah Beach.
• Drink lip-smacking home-made local cider at Cidrerie Le Pere Mahieu in Bricquebosq.
• Take a romantic stroll though the lush coastal gardens of Chateau de Nacqueville.

RELATED POST: Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary

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13 Hidden Gems In France Off The Beaten Track Places You Didn’t Know Existed

Travelers in France are always drawn to the mainstream attractions like St Tropez, Nice, Avignon, and of course, Paris. But France has a lot more to offer than just the Eiffel Tower, the Riviera, and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many attractions in France are overshadowed by the cities making the ‘Top 10 list’ in 99% of the tourist guides. That’s why I decided to write this article. To show you some of the best hidden gems in France that you probably didn’t know existed.

1.Grand Site des Deux Caps

We’re starting this list of hidden gems in France off the beaten track with Grand Site des Deux Caps. Halfway between Calais and Boulogne, you will find the longest stretch of pristine sandy beaches in France. Surrounded by charming little woods , stunning countryside, and cow-filled meadows, Grand Site des Deux Caps is one of the most overlooked places in France.

Thousands of people pass by this place every day at the end of the Eurotunnel but very few actually stop to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this place. This is one of France’s most well-kept secrets at one of its most obvious locations.

The place looks beautiful on pictures but it’s even more beautiful in reality. I can say it’s one of my biggest travel discoveries and a place that keeps making me come back every time.

Located in Normandy, Etretat is famous for the striking rock formation spreading over the English Channel . It’s one of those places at the tip of Europe that will make you feel like you’re standing over the edge of the end of the world.

Especially because, for some reason, you will not find a lot of other people visiting Etretat. It was here that the famous White Bird was seen back in 1927, making Etretat a famous site in aviation history. The plane was operated by WWI heroes attempting to fly from Paris to New York when they mysteriously disappeared.

Nothing says seafood like the North of Brittany. Cancale is a picturesque port town with a stunning countryside that’s famous for its ‘oyster culture’. Cancale is arguably the oyster capital of the world. The town is also home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Europe and in the world.

That’s why even Louis XIV had his oysters delivered to Versailles from Cancale. So, if you’re a foodie and you didn’t know about this place it’s a good time to add Cancale to your food bucket list . Also, its great location makes Cancale a good starting point for exploring the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Looking for some good deals on accommodation deals in different parts of France? Use this Booking special offer and get 15% off on all properties in France.

This list of hidden gems in France off the beaten track couldn’t be complete without Dinan. Located along the River Rance, Dinan is one of only a few walled cities in France . It’s a place abounding in medieval buildings and castles that encircle this magical town that stood the test of time. Interestingly, most of Dinan’s inhabitants are extremely proud of their Breton heritage.

Hence, Breton language is widely spoken in the city. Wandering around Dinan’s narrow streets and discovering the city’s stunning architecture is certainly worth a visit. Finally, I’m sure that if this town got some more internet promotion it would instantly become overcrowded with tourists.

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our list of secret places in Paris .

5. Loire Valley

Loire Valley is one of the biggest valleys in France. But just like Grand Site des Deux Caps, a lot of people pass by it but no one really stops to see what it has to offer. People just drive through the valleys, as it splits into the charming countryside, dinky little channels, lovely old buildings, and lush green forests.

There are a lot of castles randomly spread across the valley, and breathtaking cathedrals with magnificent frescoes, as well as an abundance of rivers and lakes with some of the most beautiful landscapes in Western France.

However, the ultimate Loire Valley experience consists of getting lost in some of the small villages scattered across the valley. Loire Valley is home to some of the most beautiful and authentic French villages and it really makes me wonder how this valley is only a transit point, rather than a tourist attraction.

6. Beaujolais

Beaujolais is a historical province and a wine-producing region that covers 39 villages in the northern part of Burgundy. This is probably the most famous unknown part of France. We all heard about the delicious Burgundian wine but we haven’t heard about a lot of people actually visiting Burgundy.

Big mistake. Beaujolais is a grand land of hills, charming villages, gothic architecture, magnificent vineyards that will surely take your breath away, and an irreplaceable part of our list of hidden gems in France.

7. Puy de Dôme

This is arguably the most visited place on this list but somehow I feel that it still doesn’t get the attention it well deserves. Puy de Dôme is a huge lava dome and one of the youngest volcanos in Europe.

The chain of volcanos spreads for 10 kilometers, making this one of the best, unknown, paragliding spots in Europe . To add to that, Puy de Dôme is also surrounded by stunning landscapes, including uplands, traditional French villages, and gorgeous crystal blue lakes.

If you want to visit places like this, the best option is to rent a car and drive on your own. If you want to rent a car in France, use this AutoEurope coupon to get up to 25% off on all car rentals in France .

Personally, this is one of my favourite hidden gems in France. Figeac is a vibrant, historic, preserved city with amazing food, surrounded by jaw-dropping landscapes. This town is the ultimate picture of La Belle France.

Amazing food, delicious wine, lively street markets where you can smell fresh cheese, charming small streets, beautiful architecture, and an amazing atmosphere. Additionally, Figeac is a great starting point for exploring the 2 valleys surrounding the city: Lot and Célé.

9. Sète

Located around 20 miles away from Montpellier, Sete is one of the most beautiful seaside towns in the south of France , famous for its stunning beaches and for hosting one of the world’s biggest water jousting tournaments.

This small coastal town has some stunning canals that will make you feel like you’re in Venice. Hence, the nickname: The Little Venice of Languedoc. The laid-back, authentic atmosphere sure is refreshing, and honestly a bit different than the other built-up tourist towns on the Languedoc coast.

Another plus is that Sete is also only 45 miles away from the wetlands where you can see the famous Camargue flamingos .

10. Villefranche sur-Mer

Close to Nice, along the French Riviera lies Villefranche sur-Mer, home to one of the deepest natural harbors of any port in the Mediterranean Sea . The port town is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and Mont-Leuze. A 45-minute hike to the top will give you an amazing view of Villefranche sur-Mer.

The town is also a great starting point for exploring the French Riviera or going for a cruise to Italy or Spain . The small town used to get a lot more visitors a few years ago but after Royal Caribbean, one of the largest cruise liners in the Mediterranean Sea reduced the number of arrivals to the bay, the number of visitors also plummeted dramatically.

Toulon is home to the second-largest naval port in France and the largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. When you look at the Co´te d’Azur it’s easy to see that Toulon is the ‘odd man out’ when compared to the other cities. That’s why Toulon is often undeservedly forgotten by travelers.

This makes this not-commercial city much more peaceful and an amazing getaway destination. Toulon is a bit rough around the edges, especially for a naval town but that just gives the city a special charm. The city still has a lot of history as its location made Toulon the center of the French navy for over 500 years. This is visible in the stunning architecture and countless museums.

Similarly like few other towns on this list, Toulon is a great town to explore on a day trip from Nice .

12. Porquerolles

Porquerolles isn’t visited by a lot of people because apparently, a lot of people aren’t aware it exists. This seaside is certainly one of France’s most well-kept secrets. The government actually bought the island entirely to protect it from overdevelopment.

Enjoying this post? Then you’ll probably like this list of hidden gems in Spain and hidden gems in Europe .

Finally, we wrap up this list of hidden gems in France off the beaten track with Menton. This charming, sleepy town at the edge of the Co´te d’Azur offers the complete travel experience and will surely win your heart. Most of the places on this list aren’t that popular for a reason, whether the bad location or people not knowing about them. However, I really don’t understand why there are so few travelers visiting Menton.

The city has beautiful beaches, amazing architecture, one of the most unbelievable old towns in France, and mouth-watering food. The city might not have the party life of St. Tropez or Cannes’ film stars but that just adds to its old-fashioned charm.

Are you planning to visit France soon? I have to tell you about Qatar Airways’s Discover the World at a low price program where they offer flights to different destinations for a price cheaper than even some budget airlines ! If you’re looking for a cheap flight to France, make sure to check it out.

Helpful Resources For Discovering Hidden Gems In France

When traveling to France, you need to have travel insurance and if you don’t have any, I recommend SafetyWing .

The best way to get off the beaten track in France is with you own vehicle. If you want to rent a car in France, use this AutoEurope coupon to get up to 25% off on all car rentals in France .

Finally, to save some money on accommodation, use my Booking discount code .

Did you like the list? Do you know some other hidden gems in France you think I missed and might make the list? Feel free to share your thoughts and drop a comment below. And if you liked it, don’t forget to check out my ultimate list of hidden gems in Paris as well as our list of alternative things to do in Paris .

Monday 23rd of August 2021

Brilliant post! Most people who visit France go for popular attractions and there is nothing wrong with that. However, France does offer a lot of off-beat tourist attractions that normal tourists fail to explore. Your interesting blog has certainly nudged me to apply for a France Visa so that I can visit these beautiful places with my lovely wife and make memories for life. Keep sharing such helpful posts about other tourist countries as well. It might certainly help tourists like me.

Passport Symphony

Thursday 2nd of September 2021

Thank you, John, I'm glad you enjoyed the post and I hope you get the chance to visit France soon.

Sunday 12th of July 2020

Number 1: Gorges du Verdon + Lac St Croix - The largest canyon in Europe. Thats your must see right here !

passport symphony

Tuesday 21st of July 2020

that's an interesting choice too! Thank you for the suggestion

Sunday 9th of February 2020

I took the advice on figeac and had the most incredible weekend - I have travelled a lot and this is the only place I would love to retire . Thank you so much I wouldn’t have gone otherwise .

That is so great to hear, Cam. We are so pleased and happy to hear that and thank you for taking the initiative to let us know.

Tuesday 20th of November 2018

Thanks for sharing these amazing locations. i can add some of them in my bucket list

Wednesday 21st of November 2018

Thank you, Rakesh

blair villanueva

Monday 12th of November 2018

Thank you for sharing these gorgeous places. These are very rare to be featured in many travel stories. France is indeed a gem of Europe!

30 small towns in France you have to visit to get off-the-beaten-path

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This article will cover all the best small towns to visit in France. We’ll be looking at off-the-beaten-path villages, unique towns, hidden gems and non-touristy places in France that you should add to your next French vacation.

NOTE: Starting in November 2023, eligible passport holders will need to apply for an ETIAS France visa. The ETIAS is the new EU Travel Information and Authorisation System for Europe. The system will require previously visa-free travelers to pre-register for travel authorization to any of the Schengen Area countries, Cyprus, Bulgaria and Romania including France. The information provided will then be checked against security databases in order to pre-screen any risks before travelers reach EU borders. The aim of the ETIAS visa waiver in France is to improve border control within the Schengen Area, as well as to make the permit application process more efficient.

France is a beautiful destination to visit, whatever season you choose to go. There are magical places to discover any time of the year. While most choose to stay on the usual tourist route, we are big fans of exploring unique towns, hidden gems and non-touristy cities in France (and pretty much anywhere else). That’s why we asked our favorite travel bloggers to let us know their favorite small cities and towns to get off the beaten path in France .

Of course, Paris, Nice, Marseilles, Saint-Tropez and Mont Saint-Michel all have something amazing to offer. They’re popular destinations for very good reasons. But they’re also very crowded! And with crowds around, exploring the beauty of France is a little harder. But hitting up these 31 small towns will help you see a different side of France! You may discover your next big coup de cœur ! The destination that will take your breath away with its beauty, its joie-de-vivre, the connections you’ll be able to make with locals.

So don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path in France. Go explore these villages and small towns! There’s something for every type of traveler, every budget and every part of the country.

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here . We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!

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30 small towns in France you have to visit

In 2018, we spent a few weeks in the south of France , going between the towns of Eauze and Gaillac. We got to explore some of the most beautiful cathedrals , vineyards and towns in the area. We loved every minute of it, even though we had never heard of these towns before. We knew there were so many other non-touristy and off-the-beaten-path places to discover. That’s why we asked our favorite travel bloggers to help us out and list the cutest little towns in France. We wanted to help you plan an itinerary that would help you uncover some hidden gems of your own during your next trip to France.

We’ve listed them out per region to make sure you can find your way more easily. We’re excited to share these non-touristy cities with you.

The best small towns in France’s Normandy region

If you’re looking to visit a historical region with a tone of beautiful towns in France, Normandy will not disappoint! With a rich history, including being home to Derek’s favorite Vikings, Normandy is a beautiful place to go off the French beaten path.

Located in the northwestern region of France, this area has so much to offer in terms of culture, history, gastronomy and so much more. Here are some of the cutest towns to visit in Normandy.

Dieppe, a small village in France with big historical significance

Contributed by Zoe from TogetherinTransit.nl

If you are looking for an idyllic, off-the-beaten-path fishing town in France, head to the North Alabaster Coast and enjoy a stay in Dieppe. Dieppe is a typical  French fishing city  with lots of local history, fun things to do and delicious restaurants to suit everyone’s dietary needs. It’s a great location for a weekend trip from Paris. 

For those wanting to visit this unique town in France, start the day by exploring the local market. It has been voted as one of the best in France. It’s a great place to try the local cuisine as well as some delicious French croissants and cakes! From here there is a yellow dotted train that tours the city to the top of the cliffs. It only costs a few euros and is great for those who struggle walking up to the top. If not, take a stroll there for gorgeous views of Dieppe and the beach.

A top recommendation in this hidden gem of a town in France is a boat trip from the harbor for an hour or two at sea. You’ll be able to check out the cliffs from the water, enjoy the sea air and learn about the local history too. For some relaxation, stroll along the beach at sunset before heading back into town for a bite to eat. Most restaurants sell local produce, such as the fresh fish caught that day out at sea. On a rainy day, head to the Dieppe Castle for some exploration inside. A foodie tip : Head to the local La Mie Câline for some of the best freshly baked goods in the city!

For day trips from Dieppe, you can easily discover the whole Alabaster Coast and drive down to Etretat. Here are more dramatic cliffs and are most popular to visit due to the location being used for many TV series, paintings and movies. 

In terms of accommodations in Dieppe , there are plenty of places to choose from in this lovely town in France.

Deauville, a non-touristy town to visit in France’s Normandy region

Contributed by Ali from InspiredLifestyleBlog.com

If you want to get away from all the touristy and overcrowded towns in France, Deauville is the perfect small town to visit. Located on the coast in the Normandy region, this quaint little city is full of charm and is all-around quite beautiful. 

And since you’re going off the beaten path in France, be prepared to have a translator app on your phone or know some basic French, as most people here don’t speak English (except the staff at the hotel). 

When you visit Deauville, there are a variety of low-key activities to do, such as checking out the local shops, grabbing a bite to eat, drinking in the local restaurants, or just walking around and enjoying the unique and charming architecture in the city. 

I also highly recommend stopping by the beach, even if the weather is chilly. You can still enjoy the beautiful seascape scenery of this beautiful town in France. If you don’t want to relax in the sand, you can also head to the Promenade des Planches boardwalk to take a stroll at the beach. 

Overall, this city is not very popular among tourists visiting France, yet, it’s a great city to visit if you want to relax somewhere more quiet than Paris and enjoy a slow-paced vacation by the sea. This is the epitome of what hidden gems in France are all about!

To get to Deauville , you can fly into the Deauville Airport. You can also rent a car and drive 120 miles from Paris. You can also take a train or a bus to the city as well. I recommend only staying maybe about two or three days. After a couple of days, you start to run out of things to do since this is a pretty small town in Normandy. Overall, it’s a beautiful town that you probably didn’t even think to add to your vacation itinerary and one you’ll love visiting!

Bayeux, an under the radar town in Normandy

Contributed by Lisa of WavesAndCobblestones .com

Bayeux is a charming town in the Normandy region of northwestern France, just ten kilometers from the English Channel. Bayeux is only 3 hours by train from  Paris , making it an excellent weekend getaway.

Bayeux’s main claim to fame is the historically important Bayeux Tapestry ( Tapisserie de Bayeux ). This medieval tapestry was created in the 11 th  century and is an embroidered documentation of the events leading up to the Norman invasion of England in 1066. This incredible tapestry is 70 meters in length and is displayed in the Bayeux Museum, a former 18th-century seminary. (Note that the tapestry will be on loan to a British museum for two years while the Bayeux Museum is renovated, with a planned return in 2024.)

Visitors to Bayeux will also enjoy a visit to the grand Cathédrale Notre-Dame, or Cathedral of Our Lady of Bayeux. This cathedral is a gorgeous example of Norman Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with soaring ceilings and many vibrant stained-glass windows. The cathedral was consecrated in 1077 in the august presence of William the Conqueror. 

For those interested in military history, Bayeux is an excellent town in France from which to explore WWII historical sites. You can visit several of the Normandy beaches used during the invasion. Pay your respects to the fallen soldiers at the Normandy American Cemetery, with its sobering array of white crosses on a field of green. A local guide can provide excellent insights into local experiences during the war and liberation.

The best time to visit Bayeux, this charming French town in Normandy, is in the warmer summer months. June is the busiest month due to the commemorations of the June 6 th  Normandy invasion. Plan to spend two days in Bayeux – one to explore the town’s attractions, and one to tour WWII sites.

Be sure to book your accommodations in town, and rent a car to get around all the other beautiful non-touristy towns in France’s Normandy region.

Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, a small town in France you must visit

Contributed by Faith of XYUandBEYOND.com

Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei is a picturesque French village officially listed among the ‘most beautiful villages in France’ ( Les Plus Beaux Villages de France® ). Set in the beautiful hills known as Les Alpes Mancelles , the village is located on Normandy’s southern border in what is known as the Orne region.

In 1982, France developed the idea of the Most Beautiful Villages in France and the designation now has 164 villages spread throughout the country. The Les Plus Beaux Villages is a way to preserve and enhance these gorgeous rural villages and provide an authentic experience for tourists.

You enter the village crossing over a small ancient stone bridge. There you will spot parking signs so you can leave your car and walk through this beautiful little village in France.

The center of Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei is an 11th-century Romanesque church with stunning frescoes and on the opposite bank of the river, there is a charming 15th-century chapel. There’s also the miracle fountain to discover. Here, the legends say that a freshwater spring just appeared where the 7th century Saint Ceneri was praying. The stories say that the spring has the ability to cure eye problems.

Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei was much loved by artists such as Corot and Courbet and pre-Impressionist landscape painters for its peace and serenity. In the 19th century, the Auberge des Sœurs Moisy was the Inn where these artists came to stay and paint, the Inn is now an art museum.

The village is around 2 hours from  Bayeux  and the beaches of Normandy and the best way to visit is by car . It lies on the scenic river Sarthe around 20 minutes from Alençon.

Most unique places to visit in northern France

The northern region of France has a ton of hidden gems to discover! This area has thousands of years of history, beautiful castles, popular towns like Mont Saint-Michel and Brest, delicious food, and so much more! Basically, you can choose to stick to its known parts, or, you can head to these non-touristy cities in the North of France

Munster, a hidden gem in northern France

Contributed by Linda from HikingTheAlps.com

The lovely little town of Munster is located in the Munster Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys of the Alsace. It is reachable by car or train from Colmar in 20 minutes or a little more than one hour from Strasbourg. 

The heart of the small town in northern France is the beautiful market square. Right next to it are the remains of Saint Gregorius Abbey. Founded in 660, the production of the famous Munster cheese (frz. fromage de Munster) was first documented here.  This soft cheese with its yellowish rind has a very strong, aromatic smell when ripe. You should definitely try it with a glass of the famous semi-sweet and aromatic wine  Gewürztraminer , which is also produced in the area.  

On top of the old walls of the abbey and other buildings of the small French town of Muster , you can find many storks building their nests and raising their young. Now, that winters are getting warmer, some are not even leaving town anymore and stay all year. 

Along the beautifully restored main street, named Grande Rue , you will find cute little shops selling local specialties such as the famous Munster cheese, wine of the Alsace and pretty much anything with a stork on it. This is the best place in town to buy your souvenirs. 

If you’re into hiking, you should definitely stay in this lovely French town for a few days. Munster is the starting point for several fantastic hikes into the regional nature park “ Ballons des Vosges ”. From the surrounding mountain peaks, you have fantastic views up until the  Black Forrest in Germany . 

In winter in the Munster Valley, you will find three small ski resorts, that are luckily not overrun by tourists. There’s also a beautiful Christmas market on the main square. Making Munster a non-touristy town in France worth a visit at any time of the year! 

Metz, a unique place to visit in France

Contributed by Martina by   PlacesofJuma.com

Metz is definitely one of the most beautiful small towns to visit and certainly not a place that everyone already knows about. This charming town in France is located in the northeast of the country, a bit off the typical tourist paths. It’s still a real insider tip for a trip.

The historic old town is captivating with a lot of charm and flair! On a trip to Metz, you can look forward to countless beautiful sights. The center is especially impressive with its distinctive atmosphere, located on the picturesque banks of the Moselle! And of course, let’s not forget the many restaurants, the patisseries and the fabulous ice cream parlors, where you can find the most delicious desserts. What more could you ask for in a charming town in France?!

What makes Metz unique is the fantastic location on the river Moselle, where you can take the most beautiful walks. This small city is comes to life in the summer! Tourists and locals meet on the riverbank to picnic, go pedal boating or just stroll up and down the promenade. The view of the Temple Neuf, an imposing church on the mini-island Île du Petit Saulcy , is also captivating from here.

The main attraction in the small Frech town of Metz is the Saint-Étienne Cathedral. It’s one of the most beautiful and largest Gothic church buildings in France. Already a real highlight from the outside, be sure to take a peek inside as well. The huge windows decorated with stained glass are breathtaking. They conjure up an impressive play of light.

One day in Metz is just enough to explore the most beautiful highlights of this charming small town in France. However, if you want to get to know the city, go out in the evening or take a trip into the surrounding area, it is worth staying a little longer. As an accommodation tip, we can recommend the Hotel de Fouquet – Chambres d’hôtes in a prime location and with great ambiance.

Non-touristy towns to visit in the South of France

The south of France is a magical place. Known for stunning beaches, vineyards, the Alpes and so much more, this region has something to offer anyone looking to get off the beaten path in France, looking to discover charming towns and unique places. Here are some of the best small French towns, charming cities and non-touristy places to visit in France’s south.

Angoulême, a charming city in the South of France

Contributed by Hannah from NouvelleAquitaineTravel.com

Angoulême is a medium-sized city in the southwest of France. You may not have heard of this underrated and charming French city, but here are a few reasons why you should add Angouleme to your next French adventure.

Set on a plateau above the surrounding countryside, Angouleme has a delightful town center. The impressive town hall and tourism office is set in the remnants of an old castle. The winding streets of this old center are encircled by the city walls. These ramparts host an annual car race of vintage cars, and afford amazing views out over the rest of the city.

The charming French town Angoulême hosts the International Comics Festival every year and even has a comic strip museum. There is also a huge array of street art throughout the city – you can even get a discovery guide from the tourist office. The city is also where Wes Anderson’s movie ‘The French Dispatch’ was filmed. What more can you ask for from a charming French city?

You can easily reach Angoulême by train from Paris in around 2 hours, or from Bordeaux in an hour. Bordeaux International Airport receives flights from around Europe and is a convenient gateway to explore the Charente. Why not combine a  weekend in Angoulême  with a trip to La Rochelle or the Dordogne and see all that the southwest of France has to offer.  

Arles, discovering this unique town in France

Contributed by Leyla from OffBeatFrance.com

Although the small city of Arles is less than half an hour by train from Avignon, few people make the journey. They have no idea what they’re missing! That’s why we wanted to share this hidden gem in France with you!

Arles is an architectural dream, recognized as such by Unesco, which has placed it on its World Heritage List. It is chock full of  outstanding Roman monuments , several worthwhile classical buildings, and an art trail that has you following in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, who spend some productive time painting here.

Arles is a deeply cultural city, home of the Rencontres de la Photographie since 1970, a world-class photo festival. The city is also home to France’s only national professional photography school. Across from the school’s modern new digs is yet another new structure, the Luma Foundation, dedicated to modern art. So wherever you turn in Arles, some kind of artistic event will be just around the corner.

Arles also happens to be the gateway to the Camargue, a wild river delta that happens to be France’s largest wetland. Filled with wildlife and birds, the region is also home to horse and bull breeders (this is a region with a bullfighting tradition) and to staggeringly beautiful sunsets, not to mention the delightful coastal towns of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer (whose church is a pilgrimage site for Roma from all over Europe in May each year) and Aigues-Mortes, an ancient fortified town.

If you’re very short on time, you could visit Arles on a day trip from Avignon, but to see the Camargue, which you must, you’d need to stay at least an extra day. Even better, two. After all, you’ll want to take the time to enjoy this beautiful French town! Plus, there are plenty of lovely accommodations to choose from in Arles.

Tourtour , a stunning and unique medieval town in France

Contributed by Alex from Just Go Exploring

France has no shortage of beautiful medieval villages. Tourtour , in the heart of rural Provence, is one of the most magical towns you’ll visit in France.

Perched at the top of a hill offering panoramic views over the surrounding area, Tourtour is a sleepy, gorgeous, quintessentially Provençal place. In the elegant central square, you’ll find shaded benches, fountains, flowers, and a few traditional cafes and restaurants offering a range of delicious local food.

Explore the maze of picturesque, cobbled backstreets that wind their way around the center of the village. Some of the medieval houses and artisans’ workshops are really stunning and beautifully preserved.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, there is a market on the Place Annabel et Bernard Buffet , located just off the main square. It’s a wonderful place to shop for locally-made food and other produce, watch an impromptu game of pétanque , and enjoy the glorious view out over the local area.

You could easily see all of the main sights in the village and the immediate surrounding area in one day. However, if you have the time to spend two or three days in this charming French town, you will get a much better sense of the rhythm of the place.

The best time to visit Tourtour is either April-May or September-October when the weather will be warm but not too hot.

Getting to Tourtour is easy if you have your own car . It’s roughly equidistant from Aix-en-Provence and Nice – 110 kilometers; about 1.5 hours driving. Both cities have an international airport, a TGV station, and a good range of car rental options .

To reach Tourtour by public transport is more difficult, though still (theoretically) possible. The village is located on two local bus routes, which connect to the towns of Lorgues and Aups respectively.  

However, to reach either of these places, first, you would need to catch a train to either Les Arcs-Draguignan or Vidauban station, then take another bus. Bear in mind that the bus services are quite infrequent, as in most parts of rural southern France. If you have the budget to rent a car , that’s definitely the way to go. And since you’re here, check out some of the many accommodations , to make sure you spend a few days and enjoy your time in Tourtour.

Condom, a unique and non-touristy town in the south of France

Contributed by Denise from ChefDenise.com

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path city in France, check out Condom in the southwest Gers region. The location makes it a great destination anytime of year, and even in the summertime, you will find few tourists. It’s one of those unique, still under the radar towns in France!

In the city itself, the 14th century Cathedral Saint-Pierre and its cloisters are one of the historical not-to-miss highlights. The nearby statue of D’Artagnan and Three Musketeers is also one of the most famous landmarks of Condom.

Art lovers should make the 10-minute drive to the Abbaye de Flaran. Walk freely through the rooms of this remote museum and discover important works by masters such as Monet, Picasso, and Rodin. The grounds and the gardens are equally enchanting. 

Arrive by car and plan on spending at least a few days here as Condom makes a great hub to explore the neighboring hilltop villages. 

Within a 15 minute drive of Condom, you can reach three villages on the official “France’s Most Beautiful Villages” list: Fources, Montreal-du-Gers, and Larressingle. Larressingle also has the honorable title of being France’s smallest fortified city. Walk across the moat and enjoy one of the most instagrammable spots in France. 

Additionally, this region boasts home to some of  France’s most famous foods , like Duck Confit and Foie Gras. You can visit the duck farms, or enjoy these delicacies at any local restaurant at an unbelievably modest price. Wash it down with one of the affordable local wines and finish with a glass of the region’s most famous beverage, Armagnac.

This is the perfect little place to use as a hub and explore even more off-the-beaten-path towns in France.

Collioure, a unique town in France, on the Mediterranean sea

Contributed by Jenny from TalesFromTheLens.com

Right on the Mediterranean sea and only 25km from the border with Spain, Collioure is one of the  most beautiful small towns in the South of France . This unique French town is known as the “The Painters’ City” (La cité des peintres).

It’s in Collioure that Henri Matisse and André Derain have found the inspiration for their vibrant landscapes which led to the creation of the artistic movement known as “Fauvism”. However, despite welcoming numerous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Chagall and Dali during the 20th century, Collioure has remained relatively off the beaten path in France and kept its beauty from mass tourism.

You will find in Collioure peace and tranquillity. Its beautiful narrow cobblestones streets are lined with art galleries and museums in honor of Modern Art or Fauvism while its surroundings are dotted with extraordinary vineyards, azure clear waters, and medieval castles!

Collioure is the perfect place for a beach holiday or a sunny getaway weekend but if you’d rather stay away from the crowds, prefer to visit during spring or the end of summer, as the village is still a popular place in July and August with French vacationers. It gets also very hot during the summer months (up to 35°c)!

By car, Collioure is only 45 min drive from Perpignan where you will find the closest airport. You can also fly to Girona, Barcelona or Carcassone where most low-cost airlines operate and rent a car to reach the “Vermeille Coast” since public transportation can be sporadic in this area.

Talloires, a beautiful small town in the French Alps to get off-the-beaten-path

Contributed by Emily from EmilyEmbarks.com

Just outside the popular tourist destination of Annecy sits the small lake-side town of Talloires. Often overlooked owing to its off-the-beaten-path location on the east side of Lake Annecy, Talloires is a true hidden gem in the Haute-Savoie region of France! You can spend your days hiking in the less-trafficked region of the Alps, going paragliding, renting a boat or paddle-boarding on Lake Annecy, picking up some fresh macarons in town, or even just sitting back and relaxing on the beach. Isn’t this what we all dream of when we think of a charming French town?!

The best time to visit Talloires is in the spring and fall when there are fewer tourists and the weather is mild and beautiful. Although, if you prefer sitting on the beach in hot, sunny weather, then the summer months of July and August will be best for you! 

Reachable in just 20 minutes by taxi or 40 minutes by bus from Annecy, Talloires is the perfect getaway from the tens of thousands of tourists that flock to this popular tourist destination every summer. It offers all the same (and even  better ) views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains.

If you have the chance to visit, I recommend staying for at least 2 days, though 72 hours would be preferable in this hidden gem in France. It will allow you to have ample time to settle into this charming small town and take advantage of its beauty. If you do plan on visiting, I recommend brushing up on your  French language skills  before you get there. 

While many people in Annecy do speak varying degrees of English, a hefty portion of people in Talloires do not. This is mainly due to the town’s higher local population. Otherwise, Talloires is an incredible off-the-beaten-path town in France that offers endless activities and the chance to truly relax in a more local French setting. Book a stay in one of the many lovely accommodations available and enjoy your time here.

Annecy, a slightly touristy mountain town in the French Alps

Contributed by Dean and Laynni at RoutinelyNomadic .com

One of France’s classically beautiful mountain towns, lovely Annecy has everything you could want in an under-the-radar destination. Filled with canals, pleasant walking paths and pretty medieval architecture, Annecy is reminiscent of Venice, but with cleaner water and smaller crowds.

And, as wonderful as the canals are, the water activities don’t end at strolling and gazing, as the town also just happens to sit on the banks of gorgeous Lake Annecy. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding or even venturing out in one of those awkward pedalos that always seem a bit harder to control than they should be, Lake Annecy also has a couple of small beaches and a nice lakeside park/picnic area, making it the ideal place to while away balmy summer days. It’s the perfect small French town to enjoy a lovely sunny weekend.

Scenically, the lake is backed by a spectacular mountain range, framing those vacation photos nicely and offering a number of exciting hiking trails for when you have reached your limit of basking in the lake ambiance. Seriously energetic hikers often come to Annecy to relax post-trek after tackling the world-famous  Tour du Mont Blanc , a spectacular 10-day alpine trek that starts and ends in nearby Chamonix. This is the main reason to make this part of your itinerary if you want to get off the beaten path in France.

Annecy is accessible by bus or train from Paris or Marseille (4-5 hrs from either)  but by far the closest major center is Geneva. It can be reached in just 45 minutes by car , 1 hr by bus or 1.5 hrs by train . Annecy is at its most lively from June to September when visitors can fully enjoy the lake, although coming in the shoulder seasons can still be very pleasant. The area is also popular with Nordic skiers in winter.

Whatever season you choose to visit Annecy, make sure you book your accommodations . There’s something for every taste and budget.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a lovely mountain town in France

Contributed by Stephanie from TheUnknownEnthusiast.com

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is an adorable little mountain village in the Verdon Regional Park in southern France. A day trip is perfect for seeing this town, and it’s about two hours from both Nice and Marseilles by car , making it a doable day trip from either location. You will definitely need a car to get here though, as public transportation does not come to the village. 

The drive up is part of the charm of this off-the-beaten-path French town, as you’ll get beautiful mountain views and pass through fields of lavender on the drive (only in bloom in the summer, of course). 

In Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, you can wander the village, with plenty of charming little spots, some colorful buildings, restaurants, and shops, and a stream that runs through town. There’s a waterfall behind the village, the Cascade du Riou, that you can hike to see, or you can follow the path that winds up the mountain to Notre Dame de Beauvoir, the chapel that sits on a cliff above the city. 

The big draw to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, though, is that it is just a short drive from the Lac Sainte Croix and Le Gorge du Verdon. This lake and canyon boast turquoise waters and beautiful views! You can rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, or motorboats and explore the lake and canyon, go swimming, or enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the river. It’s a beautiful destination any time of the year but particularly nice in the summertime when you can beat the heat on the water.

You can spend a night or two in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie to fully enjoy the beauty of this charming town in France.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a beautiful historic town in France

Contributed by Alya of StingyNomads.com

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is a small town in the picturesque valley of the Pyrenees in the southwest of France, near the border with Spain. The name of the town can be translated from French as “St.John at the foot of the pass” referring to the Roncesvalles Pass over the Pyrenees. The town was founded in the 12th century after the original town located nearby was destroyed by the army of King Richard the Lionheart.

For many centuries the town has been playing an important role in European Christian culture. St.Jean is a starting point of one of the Camino Frances, one of the pilgrimage routes of the Camino de Santiago. 

Despite its small size, there are many interesting places to see and things to do in St.Jean. Notre-Dame-du-Bout-du-Pont, a 14-century Gothic church, the 17-century fort, St.Jacques’s Gate, and the Spanish Gate are the main attractions in the town. 

You can spend a couple of days in St.Jean enjoying a morning coffee with a freshly-baked croissant, wandering on the cobbled streets, exploring the surroundings, and appreciating the tranquillity of this small charming town in France. There are many accommodations that can host you for the perfect getaway in this lovely French town.

Spring and early autumn are the best months to visit St.Jean. In the spring, hills and fields around the town are covered in flowers. In the autumn, mountain slopes are colored in different shades of red and yellow.

It’s easy to get to St.Jean-Pied-de-Port from Paris. First, take a direct train from Paris to Bayonne. From Bayonne take a bus or a train to St.Jean. The journey takes between 5 and 6 hours. 

Aix-le-Thermes, a charming town in France worth the detour

Contributed by Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew.com

The town of Ax-le-Thermes is located in the southwest of France, near the border with Spain. This charming French town is best known for its thermal baths, which have been used for therapeutic purposes since Roman times. The baths are still open to the public today, and they have become a popular tourist attraction.

Ax-le-Thermes is also home to a number of other attractions, including the Ax Cathedral and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and the museum houses a collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

It is easy to visit Ax-le-Thermes from northern Spain. Many add Ax-le-Thermes as a side trip to their Spain itinerary . It is also possible to complete sightseeing in this French town as a day trip from Barcelona. 

Ax-le-Thermes has become a popular destination for tourists, and the town’s economy is largely based on tourism. The town has a number of hotels , restaurants, and shops that cater to visitors, and there are also several tourist attractions in the surrounding area. 

Consider staying at the heart of the town, in a place like Logis Hôtel l’Auzeraie or Le Chalet with views. It is worth renting a car to get to Ax-le-Thermes. Once there, this town is very small and walkable. 

To fully experience Ax-le-Thermes, it’s best to visit it in the fall, to view wonderful scenery and enjoy the drive. This is also when the spas and the markets won’t be super crowded. Ideally, 2 days are enough to explore Ax-le-Thermes. Set aside a day for sightseeing, eating out, and shopping (or some hikes). Use the second day to relax and rejuvenate in the thermal waters!

Ax-le-Thermes is a charming town in France with a rich history, and it is well worth a visit.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a charming non-touristy town in France

Contributed by Kristy from TassieDevilAbroad.com

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a charming little French town located about 25km from Avignon. It’s one of the prettiest towns in France! It features boulevards lined with plane trees, old fountains and beautifully restored buildings, as well as a bustling market square that’s delightful to explore on Wednesday market days.

On the outskirts of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Europe, the ruins of the Roman city of Glanum. Two of the main sites are a mausoleum and a triumphal arch, both thought to have been built around 1BC. Visitors should also spend some time at the Musée des Alpilles for exhibits on the history of the town and its surroundings.

Notable people associated with Saint-Rémy-de-Provence include Princess Caroline of Monaco, who lived there for years, the 16th-century prophet Nostradamus, who was born in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and Vincent Van Gogh.

The Dutch painter spent a year at the Saint-Paul Asylum and painted many of his most famous works while there, including The Starry Night which was inspired by the picturesque surroundings of the town. A visit to the Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole is a must for any fans of Van Gogh, but even if you are ambivalent about him, the interior gardens and lavender fields are stunning!

The easiest way to get to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is via a bus from Avignon, which runs almost hourly. Summer is definitely the nicest time to visit, especially if you want to relax and enjoy a slower-paced exploration with some wine in the local cafés. The main sights could be explored in a day, but an overnight stay in one of the lovely accommodations in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence will give you a better taste of the town.

La Ciotat, a hidden gem in the South of France

Contributed by Nadine from LeLongWeekend.com

La Ciotat is like the hidden jewel of the South of France. It’s a must-see town for anyone looking to go off the beaten path in France.

Tucked away around the headland from Cassis, it’s unfairly overlooked by most visitors, who commonly flock to its more famous neighbor. But the charm of La Ciotat is just as alluring as that of Cassis, and it benefits from some gorgeous family-friendly beaches too.

One of the  most beautiful towns of Provence , it has a stunning central port, a quaint old town flanked by colorful terraced houses, and plenty of interesting history on display too. As the hometown of both petanque and motion pictures, you can find artifacts from both pastimes throughout the streets.

To get there, you can drive your car, take a bus, or train from Marseille. Spend at least a day (but 2-3 would be better ) weaving your way through the character-filled streets, eating Bouillabaisse in a port-side restaurant, watching a film in the world’s oldest theatre, and shopping in the locally owned boutiques.

Once you’re ready for a swim, head to one of the town beaches, or wander a little further to the hidden coves at Parc du Mugel (there’s also a fabulous public garden here), or Calanque de Figuerolles.

When it’s time to say au revoir  to La Ciotat, make sure you drive the scenic way out of town via the Route des Cretes to take in the most breathtaking views over the Mediterranean and Cassis along the coast. Cassis is best enjoyed when it is warm, but try to avoid the peak summer months when even this hidden gem can get overwhelmed with local sightseers.

Gaillac, a hidden gem in France’s South

Contributed by yours truly, WeDidItOurWay.com

Located about 50 km north-east of Toulouse, and 25 km west of Albi, there is the small historical town of Gaillac. It’s not on many people’s bucketlist, which makes it perfect for exploring France off-the-beaten-path.

We ended up spending about a week here (we spent time with family), but 2 days will be enough to see all the sights at a nice leisurely pace. The summer and fall are the best times to visit to enjoy the best of this unique small town.

The best thing to do in Gaillac is to visit the Abbey Saint-Michael which origins in the 10th century. You can also walk around and take in the beauty of this small town.

Gaillac is known for its wineries. It’s a great place to visit vineyards, try some wines and meet the winemakers. In fact, if you visit Gaillac in early August, you can go to the Fête des Vins de Gaillac, a weekend wine festival where you get to test out a ton of wines from the region. The Fête des Vins de Gaillac takes place in Parc de Foucaud. A small entrance fee (about 5 euros when we visited) will get you entrance into the festival and a souvenir wine glass, but you do have to purchase the wines to drink.

You can also visit nearby towns of Albi (there’s a beautiful cathedral there), Puycelsi, Bruniquel and Castelnau-de-Montmiral.

Unique places to visit in eastern France

The eastern part of France is known for the vineyards of Burgundy and Beaujolais. It’s home to the famed region of Alsace, with its unique architecture. Yet, amongst all these known places, there are still some unique towns and non-touristy cities to discover.

Besançon, a hidden gem in France’s Jura region

Contributed by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer.com

France has an endless list of places to visit, from palaces to lavender fields the country has it all. As one of the most visited countries in Europe, it is hard to imagine there are many off-the-beaten-path locations, yet the  Jura Region  in Eastern France is spectacularly well hidden. In fact, there are many towns in this French region that many locals have not even visited! Think outdoor activities galore (hiking, swimming by waterfalls,…) drinking delicious Jura wine and trying the local specialty of comté cheese.

Besançon is one of the largest towns in the region, located a stone’s throw from Switzerland. The city is easily reachable from Paris – simply hop on the direct TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon and 2h30 minutes later get off at the Besançon train station.

The town is known as the capital of time, to this day bespoke timepieces are still handcrafted locally in this small French town. Spend a few hours visiting the museum of time, before crossing the street to UTIMAM where you can watch artisans tinker away at clocks.

Besançon is surrounded by bucolic landscapes, a medieval fortress and Roman ruins that were strategically placed to guard the city. Outdoor lovers can partake in plenty of hikes, go kayaking on the Doubs river or mountain bike the many trails that crisscross the surrounding hills. Find a quiet spot to enjoy the famous wines the region has to offer: Cremant, yellow wine (Vin de Paille) and the Macvin digestif. All of the above can be tasted in a wine tasting (to be booked via the local tourism office).

Hotel le Sauvage is a wonderful locally-run hotel with a delicious on-site restaurant and a great location overlooking the Besançon valley. A great small town to discover if you’re looking to get off the beaten path in France.

Riquwihr, a unique town in France’s famous Alsace region

Contributed by Laura from LauraWanders.com

Located in the French Alsace Region, Riquewihr is one of France’s most charming towns. In fact, it’s even argued to be France’s most beautiful village! With its colorful half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, this village looks like it comes straight out of a fairytale, so it comes as no surprise that Disney was inspired by Riquewihr and the nearby village of Ribeauvillé for the village in their movie Beauty and the Beast .

Apart from admiring the enchanting houses, some of the best things to do in Riquewihr include visiting museums, seeing the fortifications, wine-tasting, visiting a traditional winstub (wine bar) and hiking the Alsace Wine Route. There are also plenty of other, equally charming villages nearby. Hunawihr, Eguisheim, Ribeauvillé and Kaysersberg are some examples. This is where you want to be if you’re looking for cute towns in France!

Riquewihr can be visited all year round, but if you like Christmas markets, then December is the perfect time of the year to go. You’ll find a Christmas market here and the houses will be decorated with beautiful decorations. One day here is enough, as it’s a very small village that’s easy to walk through. There are, however, plenty of other places to visit in the Alsace Region! If you choose to stay overnight, there are many types of accommodations to choose from in Riquewihr.

The easiest way to get to Riquewihr is from Colmar , which is located 12 km further. This can be where you set up camp to explore the rest of the Alsace region.

You can reach Riquewihr by car , bus, day tour or even by bike. Whatever way you choose, make sure to enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way – you’ll pass plenty of beautiful vineyards.

Eguisheim, a beautiful town in France’s Alsace region

Contributed by Jackie from JouJouTravels.com

Eguisheim is a real-life fairytale village in the Alsace region of France. In fact. many of the towns in this area inspired the making of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast! The best time to visit is during the Christmas season so you have the chance to visit the many  Christmas Markets in the Alsace region .

The Christmas Market is very small and intimate compared to the larger markets in both Strasbourg and Colmar making it extra special. You will be able to stay warm with a mulled wine and shop for Christmas decor or accessories like scarves!

Walking around this charming town in France, you’ll find many photo-worthy spots featuring cobblestone streets and medieval timbered houses. You just need to walk along the main path to see them all.

For a bite to eat, you can enjoy the food at the Christmas Market if visiting during the season or try the Alsatian cuisine at Caveau d’Eguisheim or Au Vieux Porche. Some specialty foods include Choucroûte garnie which is a very traditional dish with sauerkraut and a variety of meats or Tarte flambée, the Alsatian equivalent to a pizza covered with crème fraîche, cheese, onions, and bacon.

To get here, you can fly into Strasbourg Airport or take the train in. From Strasbourg, you can take a 30-minute train to Colmar and then a short bus ride to Eguisheim. You can also drive from either one of these cute towns.

Many people visit for a day trip but to experience the magic of the town with no tourists around, you can stay the night and see the place really empty out after 7 pm. One option to stay in is Brit Hotel. It is in the perfect location to explore this cute town in France!

Beaune, a charming town in France for wine lovers

Contributed by Kat from FranceVoyager.com

One of the best off-the-beaten-path destinations in France for wine lovers has to be the charming town of Beaune. This charming town is located in the heart of the Burgundy region and is home to some incredible vineyards making delicious Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 

One of the top things to do in Beaune is to rent a bike and explore the vineyards! Yes, there are bike paths along glorious vineyards and it is as picturesque as you can imagine. After all, this is what visiting unique towns in France is all about! Bourgogne Évasion is a bike tour company located in Beaune where you can rent bikes or take a tour of Burgundy with them. 

Next, you must visit the Burgundy Wine School in Beaune and enroll in either their 2-hour class or 2-day course to learn more about the wine of the region. There are also amazing tasting rooms in Beaune like Bouchard Ainé et Fils, Chanson Père Et Fils, and Domaine Debray. 

Okay, aside from wine, the town of Beaune is super charming with historic places like Hospices de Beaune, the ramparts, and Basilique Notre-Dame. 

Also, the food is amazing in Burgundy, so be sure to try things like boeuf bourguignon, escargots de bourguignonne, and coq au vin.

This is an easy day trip from Dijon if you’re planning to spend a weekend in Dijon . It is only about a 30-minute train ride away. However, you could also spend a long weekend in some of Beaune’s lovely hotels and explore this town and Burgundy too! 

The best time to visit is in the autumn months during the harvest season. Beaune is a charming little French town in the midst of some of the best vineyards in France!

Pérouges, a hidden gem town in France

For an off-the-beaten-path French town to get away to, or a day trip option during a visit to Lyon , consider a trip to Pérouges. Located around 30 kilometers northeast of Lyon, Pérouges is a walled town with a fortress that was said to have been built in the 12th century. This medieval village offers an excellent glimpse into the past.

Visitors will love walking through the cobblestone streets of Pérouges. It’s a literal walk back in time. Many of the buildings still retain the original 13th and 14th-century designs. A visit to Pérouges is an opportunity to experience a quieter side of France, where the pace is relaxed and calm.

Must-see stops in Pérouges are the Museum of Old Pérouges, as well as the fortress church of the Porte En-Haut and Place de La Halle. There are also several historical homes that visitors can walk through to see what life was like during the medieval era. Also be sure to sample the Pérouges cake, a local specialty pastry. 

Pérouges hosts several festivals throughout the year, including a music festival in the spring and a medieval festival in the summer. There are also beautiful nature walks accessible in the area surrounding Pérouges.

The best way to get to Pérouges is to drive by car . It is possible to take a train or a bus to Pérouges from Lyon. However, it involves at least a 1 km walk from the train or bus station to the actual village of Pérouges. 

The best time to visit Pérouges is in the late spring or early summer when the festivals occur. Plan to spend at least a full day in Pérouges, with an overnight stay . 

Amazing towns on the French Riviera

Is there a more iconic (and over-crowded) region in France other than the French Riviera? Of course, it’s no surprise people flock to Nice, Cannes and Saint-Tropez – they are beautiful cities to discover. But if you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore the beauty of the region at a slow and leisurely pace, we’ve got you covered. Here are the most amazing towns in the French Riviera you need to visit.

Antibes, a hidden gem on the Côte d’Azur

Contributed by Rachel from EverythingFrenchAlps.com

One of the best towns on the Côte d’Azur is Antibes, a favorite for sun-loving tourists worldwide. It is famous for its stunning villa dappled coastline with its uber-wealthy clientele, provincial rose wines and cobbled streets of the old town. 

Superyachts are common around the coastline and it’s always fun to sit at a café in the old town and spot celebrities wandering around. For all the wealth that Antibes holds, it has a very laid-back vibe. It’s unpretentious and unassuming. No matter what your budget, there are options for you to have a good time.

The charm of Antibes is well-noted, as it was home to Picasso, who now has a lovely museum you can visit in the castle, Château Grimaldi. Stroll around and view his masterpieces at your leisure, a great idea if the weather isn’t so great outside. 

A wine tasting is imperative. There are many small bars and restaurants within the old town that offer informal tasting if you ask. Otherwise, join a day trip that will take you out to the vineyards nearby. 

You can take the local train in either direction from Antibes . From there, you can visit Nice or Monaco easily for a day, or head to St Tropez or Cannes. If you have a car , it’s well worth a drive out to Gorge Verdon, which is a stunning national park inland. You can do white water rafting, Via Ferratas, or kayaking. There are plenty of things to do in this amazing little town.

Interestingly, Antibes is also very famous for being the start of the Napolean Route.  A stunning drive from Golf Juan in Antibes to Grenoble in the French Alps.  While this isn’t an easy day trip, you may enjoy adding it to a longer tour of France. 

You can easily spend a week in Antibes while visiting the surrounding areas, if you have a rental car you can of course head further afield to Aix-En-Provance or head north to the French Alps, or keep driving around to Carcassone. The entire coastline of Côte d’Azur is gorgeous. Vising in the summer months will give you much nicer weather if you want to spend time at the beach, but winter allows for fewer crowds. 

Getting to Antibes is easy. Fly into Nice Airport and take an airport taxi or travel by train. Antibes is also serviced by the TGV from Paris and all other cities in France are very easy to get to Antibes by train.

Villefranche-sur-Mer, an under-the-radar town on the French Riviera

Contributed by Veronika from TravelGeekery.com

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a pretty little town just on the outskirts of Nice. It too lies on the shores of the French Riviera, so you can enjoy the lovely seaside vibe – a lot more laid-back and picturesque than in Nice! In fact, it’s where Nice residents escape on the weekend. It’s the perfect little town to discover in France.

There are many different  things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer . You can enjoy its beaches – from one right by the city center to a more remote splash spot. Above all, though, you should spend some time strolling the enchanting historical city center lined with colorful houses with vibrant shutters. Churches and chapels will peek at you at times. Those that shouldn’t be missed are the Saint-Michel church, Saint Elisabeth chapel, and Saint Pierre chapel.

The seaside promenade is dotted with restaurants serving fresh seafood and other local delicacies. You can walk it all the way to the port of Villefranche, which is uniquely deep and sometimes hosts cruise ships.

If that’s still not enough, you can go on an exploration spree to Villefranche’s fortresses – the Citadelle Saint Elme can be found in town and it’s where the city hall is housed. The Fort du Mont Alban is accessible if you don’t mind a hike up – the views are well worth it!

While it’s possible to visit Villefranche on a day trip from Nice, I’d recommend you spend at least a night . During the workweek, it’s especially quiet, which makes it the perfect destination to go off the beaten path in France. You can get there easily from Nice by taking a train/bus, riding a scooter, or even walking.

Menton, one of the prettiest towns in France

Contributed from Elena by CarryOnChronicles.com

The gorgeous resort town of Menton deserves a prime position on every  French Riviera itinerary . Regarded as the “pearl of France,” Menton benefits from the most Mediterranean climate of the Riviera, showering visitors with over 300 days of sunshine per year.

Although Menton is small as compared to its neighboring capital of Nice, its intimate size is part of its charm. It’s also the reason it’s on the list of the best small towns to visit in France, off the beaten path.

As you wander down the winding cobblestone streets and marvel at the pretty pastel facades, you may feel as though you’ve entered the village through a storybook portal. Menton has so many wonderful gems to offer, from the cheery Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel to the lovely beachfront of Plage des Sablettes, to the picturesque Jardin Serre de la Madone. Before the sun goes down, make your way down to Quai Impératrice Eugénie, the pier of the Old Port. From the vantage point of the breakwater, you can get front-row seats to the spectacular sunset!

While Menton is frequented by travelers year-round, the best times to visit are arguably spring and fall, in order to avoid the peak summer rush. Alternatively, if you’re considering a winter escape, plan a trip for February. This is when the Fête du Citron is held, the town’s popular annual lemon festival.

You can travel to Menton by train, bus, car , or private boat. The train is one of the most convenient ways to reach the town, as it’s a comfortable ride of less than 40 minutes from Nice.

Given its small size, you can definitely do Menton as a day trip from a neighboring French Riviera town. That said, it’s a wonderful place to dedicate additional time to if you have the luxury. So why not stay a night or two in this beautiful hidden gem in France.

Other non-touristy places to visit in the rest of France

We tried our best to group these charming towns in France by region, but the truth is, France is a large country, with so many amazing places to visit to get off the beaten path. Here are some more beautiful cities in France you should add to your bucketlist.

St.-Jean-de-Luz, a unique French town to explore

Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.com

St.-Jean-de-Luz has macarons, the beach and history to offer, making it a perfect stop on a  France Spain Portugal road trip . It’s a beautiful seaside town on the Basque Atlantic coast.

Go on a short macaron tour. Stop at Maison Adam, the inventor of the Basque macaron, which is a variation on the famous macaron. Then visit Pariès, where they sells macarons, chocolates and other sweets. All are delicious. When you’re less of a sweets person, try Pierre Oteiza, who sells curated meats.

St.-Jean-de-Luz has recently become a popular seaside resort, yet it’s not as touristy as other places. There are several beautiful beaches, such as Grande Plage. A stroll on the Promenade Jacques Thibaud is perfect with the villas lining it and its views of the beach and ocean.

For those who love history, Louis XIV got married in St.-Jean-de-Luz to Spanish princess Maria Theresa in 1660. The Maison de L’Infante Joanoenia, the Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the Maison Kouis XIV are associated with the marriage. Make sure you add them to your itinerary when you visit this charming French town.

Further is Port St.-Jean-de-Luz, an old pirate and fishing town. Here you can visit the Port and stroll throughout the old town, where you’ll see pirate puppets placed to remind you of the past.

Do some shopping and people-watching on La Rue Gambetta and Place Louis XIV to end your stay in St.-Jean-de-Luz .

The town is beautiful all year round, but if you want to go for a swim, (late) Spring, Summer and (early) Fall are the best time to visit. I recommend a visit of 1 to 3 days. You can visit most of it in 1 to 1.5 days, but if you want to go swimming and have a relaxed pace, 3 days is best. The town is reachable by car , boat or public transport. By car, take the exit Jean De Luz (3) on the A63.

Clermont-Ferrand, a non-touristy town in France to add to your itinerary

Contributed by Patricia from ZeWanderingFrogs.com

Surrounded by the dormant volcanoes of the Massif Central mountain range, the beautiful French town of Clermont-Ferrand in Auvergne is away from the touristic circuits of those coming to visit France. However, the city is packed with historical monuments, offers lovely cuisine and cheese like the Bleu d’Auvergne (Blue Cheese), and is an excellent hub for exploring the outdoors.

One of the oldest cities in France, Clermont-Ferrand is known for its gorgeous 13th-century gothic cathedral made of black volcanic rocks and featuring tall spires. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption, as it is called in French, is definitely the must-see attraction in Clermont-Ferrand! The nearby Place de la Victoire dates back to Gallo-roman time when the city named Augustonemetum was built in the first century BC.

A short walk away through narrow cobblestoned streets is Place the Jaud e, the commercial plaza of the town, with restaurants and malls for those interested in shopping. The place also features a Vercinetorix statue, the Celtic war chief famous for winning over roman troops 2,000 years ago. From there, the exquisite Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Port stands a few minutes afar, a 6th-century Romanesque church and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Another old part of town is the Old Montferrand, with arched doors and shop fronts from the Middle Ages.

Looking for unusual attractions? L’Aventure Michelin, named after the popular Michelin tires, provides an engaging, interactive experience that takes the visitors through the history of tire making. Watching a Rugby match is another thrilling activity, as the sport is anchored deep in the city’s culture. Those interested in outdoor activities can board the scenic train to the top of the Puy-de-Dôme, the highest ancient volcano near Clermont-Ferrand, go paragliding, or hiking on one of the numerous trails of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park.

Clermont-Ferrand is located about 3 hours away from Paris by train and is best visited in Spring and Summer. Fall might be a good off-season to experience this town without crowds. Winter can be cold and see light snowfalls some years. Plan for two days to enjoy  Clermont-Ferrand’s top things to do  and a minimum of two days to explore the surrounding Auvergne region.

Be sure to book your accommodations in town, and rent a car to get around all the other beautiful non-touristy towns in France’s Auvergne region.

Auvers-sur-Oise, a unique town to discover near Paris

Contributed by Dominika from SundayInWonderland.com

If you’re planning to make a 1-day trip from Paris and discover off-the-beaten-path towns in France, you should definitely consider visiting Auvers-sur-Oise.

This small, a little bit sleepy town, is a perfect place to experience the vibes of small French villages. Yet, at the same time, it’s very special and has a fascinating story to tell.

Auvers-sur-Oise is a place where the famous painter Vincent Van Gogh spent the last months of his life. This stay, among charming fields and forests and under the watchful eye of his personal doctor, should bring mental relief to his unpeaceful mind. Yet, no one could predict that the painter would die here with a terrible death. The official theory states that he committed suicide by shooting himself with a gun. Yet the newest facts do not exclude an unfortunate accident with local troublemaker kids.

Today, if you’re interested in art and biographies of famous characters,  visiting Auvers-sur-Oise  could be a great sentimental trip for you. Here, you can visit the tavern where Van Gogh was living, Auberge Ravoux, and even enter his small room in an attic. Everywhere in the town, you can see the brass medallions on the ground – they will lead you through the painter’s favorite paths. Here and there, you can see a board with a painting reproduction and stand exactly in a place where Vincent stood while creating it. And finally, you can take a walk to a local hill and visit a peaceful cemetery where Vincent Van Gogh was laid to rest.

Besides the sentimental artistic places, Auvers-sur-Oise offers another attraction – the Chateau d’Anvers, built in the XVII century. Here you can enjoy sightseeing its interiors and gardens and visit local exhibitions.

You can visit Auvers-sur-Oise all year long, yet the most pleasant time is spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is nice and warm, and you can take long walks through the village. You can easily reach this place by public transport from Paris, by taking the train from Gare du Nord. Alternatively, you can purchase an organized trip from the capital, and combine it with visiting another artistic place in Giverny.

The 32 most charming French towns to get off-the-beaten-path

There you have it! The 32 most charming towns and non-touristy cities in France. If you’re looking to visit somewhere unique during your next trip to France, hopefully, this article will help you get off the beaten path and discover a special place you didn’t know about! Here’s a quick recap of them:

• Auvers-sur-Oise
• Ax-les-Thermes
• Clermont-Ferrand
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
• Saint-Ceneri-le-Gerei
• Saint-Jean-de-Luz
• St.Jean Pied de Port
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
• Tourtour 
• Villefranche-sur-Mer

Let us know in the comments what French town or city you’re most looking forward to exploring. Are there any other places we should be adding to our list? We’d love to hear from you.

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40 Paris Hidden Gems You’ll Love to Discover

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Paris hidden gems are my favorite thing to discover in the city! But don’t get me wrong, if you are visiting for the first time there are dozens of touristy spots to put on your Paris itinerary first.

If you are in the city, for 1 day, 3 days, or even a week, you will have plenty of things to tick off your Paris bucket list (and you likely won’t have time for all of these Paris secret spots and hidden places)…

But if you get the chance to stay a bit longer, or you keep coming back to this beautiful city, this list of hidden gems in Paris will take you beyond the guidebooks. Explore secret passages, micro-arrondissements, forgotten windmills, and more unique places even locals often don’t know about.

Here are 40 Paris hidden gems you will absolutely love to discover…

The passage des panoramas.

Where to find it: 11 Boulevard Montmartre, 75002 Paris, France

The oldest covered walkway in Paris makes for an amazing place to get some photos in. The glass roof provides amazing lighting and the hanging lanterns give a vintage feel that takes you back a hundred years. The Passage des Panoramas is full of eclectic boutiques and ethnic restaurants. It is one of my favorite Paris hidden gems: the perfect stop for a quick bite and coffee on a rainy day!

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Rue Cremieux

Where to find it: Rue Cremieux, 75012 Paris

One of the most colorful spots in Paris, Rue Cremieux is a beautiful cobblestone street nestled in a residential area. Rue Cremieux was a true Paris hidden gem but it has become a popular Instagram spot in the past few years. Even so, many Parisians still don’t know about it! You can take some gorgeous shots walking through the pastel-colored houses but be mindful not to disturb the residents or sit on people’s front stoops.

The Flower and Bird Market

Where to find it: 37 Place Louis Lépine, 75004 Paris, France

This pretty Flower Market is located along the River Seine between Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle. Take a stroll through the green cast iron pavilions and admire the colorful flowers and planters. Every Sunday, the Flower Market transforms into a Bird Market filled with the tweets of thousands of birds. It is a true Paris hidden gem you shouldn’t miss when you explore the  Île de la Cité .

The Zadkine Museum Courtyard

Where to find it: 100 bis Rue d’Assas, 75006 Paris, France

The beautiful courtyard attached to the museum comes to life in Summer and Fall, bronze mythological statues are hidden amongst the foliage making for a magical setting. It’s free to enter the courtyard and museum so wander through this overgrown romantic space and admire the pure artistry, a real hidden gem in Paris.

Dalida Square

Where to find it: Place Dalida, 75018 Paris, France

This is possibly one of the prettiest spots in Paris, the secluded Dalida Square in Montmartre is a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Featuring cobbled, tree-lined streets and quaint buildings it’s at its most beautiful in the Summer and the frosty Winter. You’ll find it at the intersections between rue Girardon and rue de l’Abreuvoir, a wonderful area for wandering around after.

The Columns of Buren Palais-Royal

Where to find it: 8 rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France

The 260 striped columns within the courtyard of the Palais-Royal are an amazing sight and make for some really interesting photography opportunities. The columns aren’t new but they contrast with the palace beautifully, particularly as they’re all different heights so you can catch some fun angles. The courtyard and palace are free to enter. 

The Passage Verdeau

Where to find it: 6 rue de la Grange-Batelière, 75003 Paris

The Passage Verdeau is one of the covered passages in Paris many locals don’t know about. With its classic design, glass roof, you will find some quaint boutique shops in Passage Verdeau.

The Hidden Red Car at MERCI

Where to find it: 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris, France

The little red FIAT at MERCI Concept store has become an iconic Instagram spot. But it’s still relatively hard to find if you don’t know where to look which makes it a Paris hidden gem. Merci Concept Store is tucked away in the high Marais district at the end of a hidden cobblestone street. Don’t miss the little red car on your next trip to Paris!

The Sacre Coeur Carousel

Where to find it: Place Saint-Pierre, 75018 Paris, France

Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur are one of the top sights to visit in Paris. But most people head directly to the stairs leading to the Basilique or take the funiculaire up. One of the best views of the Sacre Coeur is actually by the beautiful Carousel in the Square Louise Michel (next to Metro Anvers). It’s one of the best hidden gems in Paris that many tourists totally miss.

Villa Léandre

Where to find it: Villa Léandre (off Avenue Junot) 75018 Paris

Another hidden spot in Montmartre, Villa Léandre is a colorful art deco street with real old English vibes. Think vines crawling up colored buildings, cobbled streets, beautiful classic doors, and classic lantern street lamps. This is one of the most stunning hidden gems in Paris that you won’t want to miss.

The Montmartre Windmills

Head to Rue Lepic in Montmartre and discover the ‘Moulin de la Galette’ and its two windmills. Paris used to be full of wooden windmills but very few remain today. Many people visit the Sacre Coeur and Place des Tertres but few know to take the detour and see these adorable wooden windmills. One of the true hidden gems in Paris!

The Cloitre des Billettes

Where to find it: 22 to 26 rue des Archives, 4th arrondissement

A magical medieval spot just waiting to be found is the Cloitre des Billettes, one of the last medieval cloisters in the city. The entrance is free and the cloisters are now used as an art gallery, you can take some amazing pictures here and show a completely different lost side of Paris.

L’Oasis D’Aboukir

Where to find it: 83 Rue d’Aboukir, 75002 Paris, France

L’Oasis D’Aboukir is a true hidden gem in Paris because lots of locals don’t even know it exists! This vertical garden or mur végétal is located at the corner of rue des Petits Carreaux and covers 250 sq metres in greenery. This  Hymne à la Biodiversité  was planted by French botanist Patrick Blanc and features 7600 plants from 237 different species. The vertical is one of those unique unknown spots that is really worth a stop!

The Great Mosque of Paris

Where to find it: 39, rue Geoffroy Saint Hilaire, 75005 Paris 5

Perhaps not what you were planning to find on a Paris itinerary but The Great Mosque of Paris is a must-visit. It’s not only grand in the way it looks outside but inside you’ll stumble into a magical courtyard and lush garden area. Doors created in flower patterns, sculpted arches, colorful carpets, and there’s even a tea shop, library, and hammam to enjoy. One of our favorite Paris hidden gems.

The Damoye Court

Where to find it: Cour Damoye near Place de la Bastille 75011 Paris

This cute, paved pedestrian alley in the Bastille district is lined with boutique shops and looks quintessentially Parisian. There are some serious Madeline vibes here. If you’re shopping, or just want to sit at a quaint cafe looking for a perfect photos spot, this is it. Court Damoye is gorgeous in the Fall when all the vines start to turn.

Rue des Thermopyles

Now that’s a true Paris hidden gem… literally, no one knows this street even exists. Tucked away in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, Rue des Thermopyles comes alive in Spring and Summer when the vine is bright green and the flowers in bloom. This little street is far less popular than Rue Cremieux but equally as picturesque.

Saint Serphani Church of Sarov

Where to find it: 91 Rue Lecourbe, 75015 Paris

This tiny hidden tiny ecclesiastical building with a blue dome has a beautiful wooden aesthetic, ornate interior, and an overgrown courtyard. It’s like stepping back in time and is such a tranquil spot you’ll be happy to just take a moment to enjoy the atmosphere. A real hidden gem in Paris’s 15th arrondissement.

Boat at La Villette

Bassin de la Villette, 37 quai de la Seine, 75019 Paris

Head to Marin d’Eau Douce at the Bassin de la Villette to rent a license-free boat and sail the canals of the Bassin. Going boating is one of the most fun things to do in Paris in Summer . Such a fun and unique way to see Paris from a totally different vantage point!

Abbey Bookshop

Where to find it: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris

Is there anything more romantic than a cluttered old local bookshop, full from floor to ceiling with second-hand books? With its old wooden shelves and ladders and over 35,000 English titles inside, this is a bibliophile’s paradise. Beautiful inside and out, don’t miss this Paris photo opportunity and pick up a good book while you’re there!

Courtyard of Carnavalet Museum

Where to find it: 16 Rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003 Paris, France (please note that the museum is currently closed for renovations and is set to re-open in Spring 2020)

the Courtyard of the Musée Carnavalet is one of the most beautiful Paris hidden gems on this list, specifically in the Fall when the vine turns all shades of reds. This museum dedicated to the history of Paris is never really crowded so it can be enjoyed without a lot of tourists.

Church of St-Etienne-du-Mont

Where to find it: Place Sainte-Geneviève, 75005 Paris

With its carved wooden stairs, stunning facade, and surrounding paved streets the Church of St-Etienne-du-Mont is a beauty inside and out. It’s also much quieter than other more famous churches in Paris so you’ll be able to get some stunning historical shots.

Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet

Where to find it: Rue de la Bonne, 75018 Paris

Ready to get lost in a secret garden tucked behind Parvis de Sacré Coeur? Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet is particularly stunning when the wisteria is in bloom. A walk through the square is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris . It’s also lovely in the Summer and the perfect spot for a picnic. You’ll also get some of the best shots of Sacré Coeur from inside the park so it’s worth going for that alone.

Nef du College des Bernardins

Where to find it: 18-20 rue de Poissy 75005 Paris

One of the biggest and oldest medieval buildings in Paris, with vaulted ceilings and a gothic style hall, this a dream for anyone who loves architecture photography or wandering atmospheric buildings.

La rue du Chat-qui-Pêche

Where to find it: Rue du Chat Qui Peche, 75005 Paris, France

A real quirky secret place in Paris, it translates to the ‘Street of the Fishing Cat’ and is the narrowest street in the city. It dates back to 1540 when the local people would use it to go to the Seine. Make sure you find the cute cat street art inside.

Passage Mouffetard

Where to find it: Au 52, rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris

Rue Mouffetard is one of the most famous streets in Paris: full of adorable restaurants and lively bars, it’s a hot spot for tourists and locals alike. But hidden behind the hustle and bustle of La Mouffe is a secret passage virtually no one knows about. You can access the passage by walking through a narrow door by a souvenir shop located at 52 rue Mouffetard. Past the door, you will find a hidden cobblestone street full of potted plants and hanging vines. This secret passage is a true hidden gem in Paris!

Le Square des Peupliers

Where to find it: 75013 Paris, France

Wander down this secret mews-like side street brimming with character and traditional charm leading to a gorgeous courtyard that looks like a tiny French town. It’s a photographer’s dream, catch it before it gets busy!

Where to find it: Rue de la Mouzaia, 75019 Paris

A tiny neighborhood that could rival Montmeatre for its old-warm charm except it’s far less busy. If you fancy a tranquil walk around a picturesque, residential area of Paris then this is perfect. It’s particularly welcoming the Spring when the trees are green and the blossoms are out.

Square René-Viviani

Where to find it: 25 Quai de Montebello, 75005 Paris

This public square, adjacent to the Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, sits along the Seine and offers an unbeatable view of Notre Dame Cathedral. You’ll even find the oldest tree in Paris inside! It’s also a great starting point to explore the Latin Quarter.

Les cités du Figuier et Durmar

Where to find it: 104-106 rue Oberkampf, 11th

Escape busy Oberkampf to wander flowery green side streets with uneven cobblestones, Paris is full of secret impasses like this just waiting to be discovered. Colored house fronts and a real-life of local life, this is a street photographer’s dream.

Le quartier de “la Campagne à Paris”

Where to find it: 210 Rue des Pyrenees, 75020 Paris

A tiny city in the heart of Paris complete with gardens, quaint brick houses, cobbled streets, and traditional street lamps, and buckets of charm. It’s a place to get lost and take photographs and wish you could live there yourself. It can only be accessed by car from one street (Pierre Mouillard street) so it’s a wonderfully peaceful city escape.

The Japanese Garden, Albert Kahn Museum

Where to find it: 10 Rue du Port, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France

This museum has its own authentic, traditional Japanese garden. It’s complete with a flowing brook, red bridges, ginkgo trees, and cherry blossoms that make for a stunning place to take the most colorful floral photos.

La promenade plantée

Where to find it: 1 Coulée verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France

An abandoned elevated railway line has been transformed into a romantic walkway covered in gorgeous vegetation. You get views of the surrounding cityscape as well as a dramatic blend of the natural and the abandoned.

La Butte Bergeyre

Where to find it: 76 Rue Georges Lardennois, 75019 Paris, France

This is a quiet neighborhood park that’s situated on the side of a hill – it’s a thick, wild place to take amazing photos. Butte Bergeyre blends rugged woodland style with gorgeous Parisian architecture for a real treat.

Square Saint-Gilles Du Grand Veneur

Where to find it: 9 Rue du Grand Veneur, 75003 Paris

The buildings surrounding this square are the epitome of traditional baroque Parisian architecture. Mix that with the wrought iron gates and perfectly maintained flower beds and you have the ultimate in Parisian photo opportunities.

La Butte aux Cailles

Where to find it: 10 Rue Daviel, 75013 Paris

Simply known as Little Alsace, this is a quiet and quaint suburban-style neighborhood that offers photographers the chance to feel like they’re in an old Disney film of singing birds and happy elves. Make sure to stop by La Villa Daviel. This charming lane features terraced houses, a cobbled street, hanging ivy, stone walls. In short, everything you need for a romantic Parisian photo shoot.

Le Cabaret du Lapin Agile

Where to find it: 22 Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris

Lapin Agile, meaning ‘Intelligent Rabbit’ is an old cabaret club made from stone that looks like an old French cottage in the heart of Paris. It’s a little eerie and extremely tranquil; a photo opportunity like no other you’ll find in Paris.

Le passage de l’Ancre

Where to find it: 30 Rue de Turbigo, 75003 Paris, France

A beautiful and romantic passageway lined with trees, where each little shop is painted a different color. Under a blue sky, the place glows, and there are potted plants dotted around everywhere. This is one of the few remaining Paris hidden gems because it’s truly a secret spot you can’t stumble upon unless you really look for it.

Gallerie Vivienne

Where to find it: 5 Rue de la Banque, 75002 Paris

This is one of the grandest and dazzling places in all of Paris. Golden walls and a glass ceiling turn this gallery into a photogenic palace that you can explore and photograph to your heart’s content.

Musée de la Vie Romantique de l’Hôtel Scheffer-Renan

Where to find it: 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris

The Museum of Romantic Life pretty much sums up this gorgeous space at the foot of Montmartre hill. Evoking the Romantic era in this former artist’s residence you can enjoy the permanent exhibitions for free and wander the paved courtyard and greenhouse. It’s picturesque in every way.

Marie De Médicis Fountain

Where to find it: Rue de Médicis in the Luxembourg Garden, 75006 Paris

Commissioned by King Henry IV’s widow in Luxembourg Garden, this impressive carved fountain and surrounding statues are impressive, to say the least. Italian renaissance vibes at their finest, you’d never believe this was in Paris.

Whether you are spending a romantic weekend in Paris , searching for the best Paris photo spots , or looking to indulge in some of the world-famous Parisian desserts , these beautiful places to visit will fit into any itinerary.

And if you love to find more unusual things to do when exploring a new city, check out my Venice Hidden Gems !

Know any other Paris hidden gems? Share them in the comments!

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37 comments.

I am OBSESSED with this list! So many incredibly spots in Paris. I wish I’d read this before I went to Paris! I visited some of them like Rue Cremieux, but most of them I’ve never heard of! I guess that means I have to go back to Paris…. 🙂

Paris seems like such an amazing city. It’s definitely on my bucketlist for 2020. I pinned this post so I can refer to it when I start planning my itinerary

You have the *prettiest* photos ever! Thanks so much for this guide! Saving this for my next trip to Paris.

WOW – so many gorgeous places to visit. I’ve put them ALL on my list for the next time I visit Paris. Thanks for sharing.

Very charming guide! I don’t feel like I saw that much on my last trip to Paris, but would love a redo with more hidden gems like these!

What beautiful suggestions. I love exploring Paris. Sure need to go and check out a few of them, thanks for the ideas

I wish I’d known about these places before I visited Paris, you have shared some incredible places Julie! Jaz

A whole different perspective from Paris! Awesome!

Absolutely love your photos, I’ve being 2 times to Paris and I feel like I haven’t seen the magic. Just rainy days and it’s such a big city that 2 or 3 days is not enough.

You have put this list together beautifully. There is enough variety to attract different people. Paris is on my bucket list and I hope to be able to visit a few of these places someday!

Thanks Jean-Marie. I’m around for tips whenever you make it there!

What a great list, Julie! I lived in Paris for several months during college on an exchange term – wish I had known about these places then! Love your pictures, and your outfits – those skirts are divine!

Thanks for such kind words, Smita. I’m sure you’ve found many other gems on your own accord – Paris has a never ending supply!

I was just back from Paris… ohhh I wish I have read your post earlier!!!!! (luckily, I find that I checked in The Sacre Coeur Carousel at least!!! by chance) haha 😀

Ready to book your next flight then, I’d say 😉 Did you find other spots as the highlight of your visit?

I always wondered where the red car was! And that mosque looks almost as picture perfect as Marrakech. Oh how I desperately need to visit Paris!!

I want to go to all these places! These looks like they will make an incredible trip to Paris!

Spring is a great time to visit Paris, wink wink 😉 Oh who am I kidding, any time is a good time.

So many wonderful things to do and places. I spent two weeks in Paris and a few of them look familiar but I missed so many others! I´ll need to go back to check them out! Thanks for sharing!

Oh my, sounds like the perfect excuse to revisit, Pia! That’s the tricky part about Paris: 10 years of sightseeing wouldn’t be long enough.

OH EM GEE!! Wow! Paris is a place I’ve been wanting to visit for awhile now and wow these pictures are just stunning! Paris is so cute! I will save this! <3

I was supposed to be in Paris right now -_-. But I’ll get there one day!! I love finding off the beaten path types of places, so I love this list!!! I’ve never heard of most of these – L’Oasis looks SO cool, and that church with the wooden stairs! Definitely going to use it for whenever I rebook my trip!

These hidden gems are so pretty. Some of the little known streets are just gorgeous. Definitely pinning for next time.

What an amazing list! I was just in Paris for a long overdue second trip to this city back in late January. A full week. And it wasn’t enough! I’m not a city person, but I do love Paris and imagine staying for a month … or more! That way I can explore all these places with my camera! I’m definitely saving this list for my next trip to Paris.

Great post! All these places look so magical. I cannot wait to return to Paris and see them myself. Thanks for sharing.

I haven’t been to Paris yet! Need to remember all of this for when I finally get there. All about those hidden gems 🙂

Ahh these are all so gorgeous, Julie! Definitely took me down memory lane when I spent my 20th birthday in Paris (how was that already 6 years ago?!) Thanks for the awesome guide! I can’t wait to go back one day soon. XX

Absolutely love this post! I have been to Paris multiple times but you have so many cool places on here I have never seen! I especially love the Great Mosque of Paris!

What a lovely list! I’ve been to Paris a few times but there are some I’ve yet to see. Now I have an excellent excuse to go back as it’s an amazing city!

These places look so incredible! Can’t wait until travel is possible again so I can go check them out! Thanks for sharing, I will save this for sure!

Oh wow there are so many places in this list I’ve never heard about! Such a great post, thank you for sharing it! Now I can’t wait to go to Paris again 🙂

I LOVED this blog post on the hidden gems in Paris! I haven’t been to most of them. I’m particularly excited about finding the carousel near Sacre Cour. I love carousels!

You just made me wanna go back to Paris! Lovely pictures and great tips!

I LOVE this list!! Thank you for posting all of these lovely places. I’ve been to Paris several times, but often I just hang out with a friend who lives there. I also usually have a ‘things to see & do’ list for when he’s busy.

This gem has been on my list for a ‘minute’ but I haven’t made it there yet: an ancient Roman amphitheater that dates back to 1st century BC. RIGHT?! There is no ‘cute’ factor, but if you love history, you’ll love this spot.

Arènes de Lutèce

this is a great list. I have an addition. At Jardin des Plantes, there is small garden thats’ not easy to find. I think it’s called Alsase or something like that. You have to go thru one of the little tunnels and you have this beautiful small garden. Most people don’t look for it as the Jardin des Plantes offers enough beauty walking from one end to the other. Promise if you find this you’ll love it. a creek or two, some gorgeous trees, it’s a great find. You, I miss Paris so much!!

Absolutely stunning! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide!

What a great list of hidden gems. There is always something new and beautiful to discover in Paris. And I don’t know why but the Le Cabaret du Lapin Agile is giving me Alice in Wonderland vibes.

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Calanques Provence - hidden gems in France MaxPixel

Hidden Gems in France: escape Europe's tourist crowds

There has been a lot in the news lately about the problem of ‘ overtourism ’ in some of the world’s most popular tourism destinations. And tourist crowds can be a real turn-off when you're looking for a relaxing, authentic experience of another country and its culture.

Our travelers seek  more authentic experiences away from the tourist traps. They want to meet the locals and explore destinations by heading off the beaten track . 

Luckily, we have all the insiders’ knowledge about many hidden places in   France . In fact, if there’s something in particular that attracts you to one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations, let us know, and we’re sure we can find you the equivalent in France. 

What’s more, we’ll take you away from the tourist crowds and introduce you to some friendly French locals , who will be only too pleased to share with you their insiders’ tips.

Here are our suggestions for French alternatives to Europe’s most crowded tourist destinations.  

Instead of Barcelona, visit the hidden gems of the French Riviera

Barcelona is known for its wonderful art nouveau scene - Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia Basilica and Parc Güell being excellent examples - and its Mediterranean coast. If you’re looking for somewhere that offers a beautiful European city, Mediterranean beaches and an impressive art scene (plus so much more!), let us introduce you to the hidden gems of the French Riviera . All of these places are within an hour’s drive from the city of Nice. 

Enjoy beautiful hilltop views of the Mediterranean on the French Riviera ( Pixabay , MrJayW)

Art-lovers will adore the lovely village of Mougins , just a half-hour drive from Cannes. The upscale, independent art galleries offer an escape from the museums of the big cities, but you’ll still find masterpieces by famous European artists like Dalí, Picasso and Cézanne. It’s an ideal place to find some authentic souvenirs, as you’ll be able to buy work by local artists too.

To see some of the local handcrafts and stroll along charming, cobbled streets,  St Paul de Vence is just a half-hour drive from Nice.  It is one of the French Riviera’s oldest medieval hilltop towns and it’s impossible to take a bad photo there!

Places of interest include La Petite Cave, a 14th century wine cellar where you can also buy a local specialty, lavender liqueur. Barcelona is famous for Gaudí's art and architecture, so we also recommend a visit to La Chapelle des Penitents Blancs. Here you'll appreciate Jean-Michel Folon's gorgeous frescoes, mosaics, and stained glass windows. The beautiful natural surroundings and stunning light in this region has inspired artists past and present, and many have made Saint Paul de Vence their home.

The medieval hilltop village of St Paul de Vence ( Jpchevreau , CC by SA 4.0)

If you want to go to a nice bar or restaurant in the evening away from the city’s tourist crowds, Villefranche-sur-Mer is just a 25-minute drive or 15 minutes by train from the center of Nice. It is a relatively undiscovered area of the French Riviera and has a gorgeous waterside location. For lovely views over the Mediterranean, visit the botanical gardens at Èze, which lies about half-way between Nice and Monaco. 

With art, beaches, a city and hilltop views, we think that this part of the French Riviera is a fine alternative to Barcelona.

Instead of Dubrovnik, visit the pretty port town of La Rochelle

Thanks to TV series Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik, Croatia shot to fame in a short space of time and has been overwhelmed by fans and tourists. The daily arrival of cruise ships carrying thousands of passengers has exacerbated the problem, such that only 4,000 cruise passengers are permitted to be in the Old Town at any one time. This is on top of the 1,500 local people who live in the old town. 

If you would like to enjoy a beautiful city with Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic features and a lovely port location but without the huge crowds, visit La Rochelle . 

La Rochelle Port (Wikimedia Commons, CC by SA 3.0)

The two ancient towers at La Rochelle's charming harbor are a wonderful sight. At the entrance to the harbor, you'll see the imposing St Nicolas Tower , which dates back to the mid 14th century. It shared its defensive position with the smaller Tour de la Chaine . The Tour de la Lanterne , built in the 15th century, is a real beauty. It functioned as a lighthouse , lit up by an enormous flame that burned inside the tower. It is one of the oldest of its kind. It was also used as a prison, and if you look carefully on the inside walls of the tower, you'll see graffiti left by English seamen who were held captive there. Buy a joint ticket to visit all three of La Rochelle's most iconic towers. 

To learn more about La Rochelle’s maritime past, a trip to the Maritime museum is a must, and we also recommend a visit to the city’s aquarium . It hosts more than 12,000 marine creatures and 600 different species, including sharks, rays, jellyfish, piranhas, seahorses and turtles. Visitors descend to the ocean floor in an old 'submarine' before being surrounded by the sound of waves and gentle classical music.  Marvel at the enchanting Gallery of Lights and wander along the tree-top trails surrounded by 'jungle' above ponds of ferocious looking piranha fish. An enjoyable visit for all the family.

La Rochelle Aquarium ( Groonn , Wikimedia Commons CC 2.0)

The beaches in La Rochelle are a mix of golden sand and pebbles. Bring sea shoes to protect against cuts from sharp stones as you walk into the sea. The beach at Chef de Baie is about a 20-minute drive from the old town of La Rochelle in natural surroundings. There’s a nice bar-café selling snacks and drinks, and there’s a bathroom. The breakwater keeps the currents at bay and the beach is very expansive at low tide. Keep in mind that it will almost disappear at low tide. You may check the time of the tides here . Make sure you arrive at least two hours before and after the high tide to enjoy as much of the beach as possible. 

With its beaches , lovely old town and picturesque harbor , we think La Rochelle is a great alternative to Dubrovnik. 

Instead of Rome, wander around the ancient sites of Provence 

Rome ranks high up on many Europe bucket lists, and it’s not hard to understand why. Rome has a fascinating past, still evidenced by the incredible Colosseum and Roman Forum. 

Provence offers some of the most impressive Roman sites in the world, three of which have been included in UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites . Can it compete with Rome's Roman Forum and Colosseum, you ask? We think so!

The Roman Amphitheater in Orange, Provence ( Wikipedia  GFDL, Gromelle Grand Angle)

The Roman theater in Orange is one of the best preserved Roman sites in the world, and has been standing since 25 A.D. What makes it unique are the remnants of Augustine architecture and the impressive 330 foot long facade. Further south, the lovely town of Arles offers a Roman arena , amphitheater and underground galleries dating back to the first century B.C. Later Roman structures included the baths of Constantine and the necropolis of Alycamps . 

Visitors may feel that the amphitheater at Arles feels slightly less authentic, as it has been adapted to accommodate open-air theater shows. However, this is also the magic of it. You can enjoy a show and imagine what it must have been like sitting in the audience back in the Roman times. 

A feat of Roman engineering and one of the most popular attractions in France is the Port du Gard Roman aqueduct . This awesome three-story structure dates back to the first century A.D. and was used for transporting water from local springs. It was built without mortar and, incredibly, has remained in tact for nearly 2,000 years. 

Avoid the biggest tourist crowds in Rome, and enjoy some of Europe’s most incredible Roman sites right here in France.

Pont du Gard Roman Bridge ( MaxPixel CC0)

Instead of Cinque Terre, explore the hidden alleys and creeks of Provence

Another very popular place among tourists is Cinque Terre on the north-western coast of Italy. Tourists are drawn to the region’s delicious Mediterranean gastronomy and the gorgeous, colorful and dramatic coastal landscapes. Could anywhere in France possibly compete? But of course! 

Provence offers unforgettable landscapes, as well as some stunning hidden gems around the coast. In terms of gastronomy, we know you’ll love the seafood, the fine quality rosé wines , the extra virgin olive oil , and lavender liqueur , for which the region is famous.

The Provence coast in France ( MaxPixel CC0)

Provence’s historical harbor town of Cassis greets visitors with the same warm pastel colors and beautiful turquoise sea as you’ll find in Cinque Terre. This region is well-known for its calanques . These are creeks that have formed in the rocky coast-line of this part of Provence. Many have sandy beaches and picture-perfect landscapes. The pretty Port Pin Creek is within walking distance of Cassis town. 

For impressive panoramic views across the landscape and Mediterranean, drive along the Route des Cretes, and stop for a picnic. For some delicious seafood, try the gratinated mussels and escabeche sardines at the Vieille Auberge back in Cassis.  

If it’s a taste of Mediterrean urban life you’re after, the vibrant city of Marseille is just a half-hour drive from Cassis. Spend an afternoon strolling through the old narrow streets and alleyways of Le Panier neighborhood , a picture of charming decadence,  where the Greeks first settled in 600 BC.

Marseille. Mucem (left), Cathedral (background) and port tower ( pxhere CC0)

You could wander for hours between the pastel-colored buildings with their traditional white window shutters and flower-boxes without getting bored. Visit the striking striped Cathedral La Major for the best views of the whole city. Go in the late afternoon or first thing in the morning to avoid the tourist crowds. 

Instead of Amsterdam, discover the charm of Colmar  

No-one can deny the draw of Amsterdam, a modern, forward-thinking city with picture-perfect canals winding through it and a huge range of cultural offerings. Unfortunately, it has become so overcrowded with tourists that some visitors may feel that it has started to lose some of its charm. But don’t worry - we have the ideal alternative for you here in the  Alsace region of eastern France .

The beautiful town of Colmar in the Alsace region of France ( MaxPixel CC0)

The medieval town of Colmar, which has changed hands between France and Germany various times throughout history, is truly enchanting. The best part is that it offers a more intimate experience than the city of Amsterdam, and is pedestrian-friendly , so it's perfect for exploring on foot. It is particularly famous for its traditional French Christmas market .

The whole town has a fairytale ambiance during the Christmas period. That being said, this architectural, cultural and historical treasure has much to offer all year round. Its mixed French and German heritage means the whole region of Alsace has a distinctive culture , with everything from its buildings to its food having been influenced by both nations.

One of the best things to do in Colmar is a visit to the picturesque, aptly-named neighborhood of Little Venice . Characterized by La Lauch canal , Little Venice looks like a real-life picture book. You'll struggle to put down your camera as you pass by the absolutely stunning, colorful, half-timbered buildings and winding canal. Stroll along the cobbled streets and alleys of the center of town and sample some Alsatian biscuits and charcuterie from some of the local shops. 

Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful trip along the canal on one of the small wooden canal boats parked by the Saint Pierre bridge . Sit at the front for the best views and enjoy gently gliding under the flower-boxes of the surrounding sherbet-colored houses. As well as supplying water to the town, the canal was also useful to merchants and traders, such as butchers, fishmongers and tanners, helping them move their goods from one place to another. The town's covered market even has steps leading down to the canal, where goods are received and then sold. The market is also an ideal lunch spot , allowing you to sample some delicious fresh local cuisine.

The covered market (right) and cobbled streets of Colmar ( Krzysztof Golik , CC by SA 4.0)

If a canal boat trip doesn't appeal, take a 35-minute trip around the town on the tourist train , which departs from the Unterlinden Museum. Speaking of museums, Amsterdam is of course famous for its world-class museums. We actually think the town of Colmar itself is pretty much a living open-air museum ! But if you're looking for a more traditional museum, the Unterlinden Museum is the place to go. Covering 7,000 years of history up to the present day, visitors will learn about medieval winemaking , see  Alsatian artefacts  and artwork by the likes of Lucas Cranach, a German Renaissance painter and printmaker, and even Claude Monet .

Unterlinden Museum in Colmar (© Jörgens.mi CC BY-SA 3.0)

If you're traveling with children, they will love the Toy Museum . It has exhibits from vintage teddies to original Barbie dolls and the first video games. While adults enjoy a trip down memory lane, there are interactive exhibits for children to engage with.

Trying some Alsatian food is next on the list, and it's another clear indication of the region's German past. Enjoy sausages, sauerkraut, and special casseroles. Wash it all down with some fine Alsatian wine from the ground floor  of the magnificent Pfister house . You won't have trouble finding mouth-watering dishes; after all, Colmar has three Michelin starred restaurants. 

Although Colmar may not have the same exciting atmosphere as a big city like Amsterdam, its beauty and fascinating culture makes it an excellent alternative. 

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We are experienced travelers and spent about three weeks traveling the french countryside via Emilie’s arrangements. Her personalized guidebook provided everything we could have asked for and, when some unexpected issues came up, Emilie promptly responded with kind, thoughtful assistance. We spent days with detailed driving tours, truffle hunting and dining with the most amazing family and enjoyed the warmth and hospitality of some terrifically interesting B&B hosts. Our only regret was that Emilie’s service is currently limited to France!

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This was our second trip arranged by France Just for You. That says a lot. What says more is we would do another trip with them without any concern. They are pros from the time the trip is planned to the very last minute of the journey. Every detail is provided through the travel book, app and communication, if needed, during the trip. We would highly recommend France Just For You!! Many thanks.

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My wife and I were planning a special trip to Provence and although we didn't want a canned tour, we did want support to ensure we didn't miss out on experiences we simply weren't aware of. In our search we got lucky and found Emilie. She interviewed us in advance so she could customize the trip to our desires and interests and ultimately created our own guidebook packed with countless options and details. She secured the perfect vehicle for us with a gps so we could use the coordinates provided in the book to get exactly to even the most obscure location. This alone saved us hours of time and aggravation. We had an excellent and diverse itinerary featuring 2 beautiful B and B's. At the second, Phillippe ( a Michelon Chef) and his wife cooked a wonderful dinner and served the best waffles I have ever had. We toured small villages perched on the sides of cliffs, went truffle hunting with trained truffles Dogs, had a dune buggy ride through a vineyard, etc. , all thanks to Emilie' s knowledge and expertise. We got to see Provence as we would never have been able to do on our own. I highly recommend Emilie to assist with making your trip the best it can be!

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Hidden Gems in Paris, 40+ Secret Spots

Looking for some unusual things to do in Paris? Here’s my guide to discovering hidden gems and secrets spots in Paris.

I love Paris . I’m a Francophile of the highest order and it’s my favorite city in the world. Paris is cultured, sophisticated, and lives up to its hype.

I’ve visited many times, and wish I could just move in. I’m visited almost every museum, all the tourist traps and top sites, and all the arrondissements.

Along the way, I’ve discovered many delicious hidden gems, charming back streets, cultural venues, and out-of-the-way neighborhoods in Paris.

There are dozens of hidden gems in Paris where you don’t have to have a battle plan to visit or jockey for position in front of the Mona Lisa . Or even stand in line.

Hidden Gems in Paris

I’ve put together a list of 40+ of Paris’ off the beaten path destinations and less visited sites.

You may even want to book your own hidden gems tour. Click here for a 3 hour guided tour or click here for an e-bike tour.

1. La Conciergerie: Royal Palace and Prison

La Conciergerie isn’t an unknown or secret spot exactly. It’s UNESCO-listed, after all. But it’s a rather dark and dank space, so not many tourists actually venture inside, headed to the more popular Sainte-Chapelle instead.

But that’s a mistake. Especially if you’re a history buff and want to re-live the French Revolution.

The underrated Conciergerie was built in the 6th century. It was the residence of Clovis, the first King of France and used to be a royal palace.

In the 14th century, the kings and queens abandoned the gloomy Gothic palace and decamped for brighter digs. When King Charles V, the last royal resident, moved out, he appointed the first “Concierge” and renamed the edifice La Conciergerie.

After the French Revolution, the Conciergerie became the “antechamber of the guillotine” — the last stop before people were marched to the Place de la Concorde and beheaded.

It boasts a stunning and atmospheric vaulted ceiling, the Salon des gens d’armes, which was declared a UNESCO site in 2006.

On one corner of the Conciergerie, you’ll spy the Tour de Horloge. It contains Paris’ oldest clock. King Charles V conceived it as Paris’ first public clock. It was installed in 1535, gilded in 1585, and still keeps time for Parisians.

Click here to book a combined ticket to the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle.

Address : 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris

2. Auberge Nicolas Flamel: Paris’ Oldest House

Down a winding cobbled road in the Marais neighborhood of Paris, you’ll find a rather unusual stone house dating from 1407 and covered in symbols. It’s officially the oldest house in Paris. Now, it’s the site of a restaurant and hotel.

But the house was originally built by Paris’ famed alchemist, Nicolas Flamel. Flamel reputedly invented the Philosopher’s Stone, a mysterious object that turned metal into gold.

Flamel conducted his experiments in this house. Flamel’s tomb, decorated with symbols, is on display at the Musée de Cluny , a must see site in Paris’ Latin Quarter (but sadly not a hidden gem).

It’s never been definitively proven that Flamel practiced alchemy. But he’s certainly been the subject of obsession.

Flamel appears in many fictional books discussing alchemy, including Harry Potter and the Philosopher Stone, Victor Hugo ‘s The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Umberto Eco’s Foucault’s Pendulum, and Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code.

Address : 51 rue de Montmorency Paris

3. College des Bernardins: a Rare Medieval Building in Paris

On a little side street on Rue de Poissy, you’ll find a building almost no one visits — the sober and refined 13th century College des Bernardins.

It’s a historical landmark in Paris. The college is a former residence of Cistercian Monks, who trained there for centuries before the French revolutionaries abolished monasteries.

It’s a beautiful old medieval building, both inside and outside. The vaulted ceilings in pale beige sandstone are amazing. In 2004-08, the college became the last medieval building to be renovated in Paris. Now, it’s used as a cultural and spiritual center.

Address : 20 rue de Poissy, 75005 Paris

4. Grande Mosque de Paris

The  Grande Mosque de Paris  is the principal religion center for Paris’ Muslim community. 

The mosque was built between 1922-1926 in a composite Moorish style. Its calling card is a striking green and white minaret that’s 65 feet tall.

The most gifted artisans from northern Africa were hired to decorate the building with mosaics, tiles, and marbles. The grand patio features woodwork, mosaics, and a beautiful fountain. It was inspired by the  Alhambra  in  Granada . 

The mosque is open to the public. You’ll just have to take your shoes off to enter. It also has a popular tea room, which serves mint tea and Moroccan food in an idyllic Moorish setting. 

Address : 2bis Pl. du Puits de l’Ermite

5. Basilica Saint-Denis: Deathstyles of the Rich and Famous

Just outside the Paris city limits lies a completely overlooked hidden gem in Paris — the fantastic and sorely underrated Cathedral Basilica de Saint-Denis .

It’s downright astonishing that there aren’t more tourists there. Really, I don’t say this lightly. It’s a French national treasure.

Saint-Denis is the birthplace of Gothic architecture. It heralds Europe’s transition from a clunky Romanesque style to a more elegant Gothic one. Saint-Denis is one of the most historic and religiously important buildings in Paris.

Saint-Denis is the preferred burial site of French royalty, showcasing the death styles of the rich and famous. It’s a museum of monumental French religious sculpture.

It holds the funeral effigies of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI. They were commissioned by Louis XVIII in 1815, no doubt to put an exclamation point on the Bourbon Restoration.

When you’re done with the main nave of Saint-Denis, venture into the dimly lit Romanesque crypt. Parts of the crypt survives from the 8th century. You’ll find the tombs of St. Denis (possibly) and the Bourbon Chapel.

Click here to pre-book a ticket for Saint Denis. Click here to book a guided tour of this amazing basilica.

Address : 1 rue de la Legion D Honneur, 93200 Saint-Denis, France

6. Chateau de Vincennes: Medieval Fortress-Palace

Lying in the eastern suburbs of Paris, at the end of metro line 1, is the 14th century Chateau de Vincennes . It’s a super easy half day trip on the Paris metro. I’m surprised more people don’t go.

Like Fontainebleau, the chateau began life as as a royal hunting lodge in the 12th century. King Louis VII was known to dispense justice beneath the trees. During the 13th century, the lodge was transformed into a larger, palatial estate for the French kings.

In the 14th century, the venerable building you see today was reconstructed, renovated, and modernized. It became the primary royal seat until Versailles was completed. When the 52 foot Donjon was added, Chateau de Vincennes became the tallest medieval fortified structure in Europe.

The chateau is wholly intact with a keep, dungeon, moat, and fortified concentric walls. That’s pretty unique. When the royals decamped to Versailles, the chateau was used as a prison. The Marquis de Sade, Voltaire, Mirabeau, Diderot were all imprisoned there.

Address : Avenue de Paris, 94300 Vincennes, France

7. Parc de Bellville: Free Views of Paris

Belleville is a new hotspot in Paris. It’s known for its colorful street art, ethnic food, and melting pot culture.

Belleville’s park, the Parc de Bellville, is perched on a hillside. From there, you’ll have a killer view over Paris and its major monuments, which is both free and tourist free.

Otherwise, the park itself is nothing special. If you want to hike in an idyllic leafy green spot, walk to the nearby English-style Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.

It’s Paris’ 5th largest park and was created by Napoleon III. Walk the 207 foot long suspension bridge to an island and the Temple de la Sybille.

Address : 47 Rue des Couronnes, 75020 Paris

8. Rue de Martyrs in South Pigalle

The steep high street Rue des Martyrs is the heart and soul of South Pigalle , and its main artery. It’s a half mile of magic stuffed with over 200 cafes, restaurants, groceries, chocolatiers, fromageries, and bars.

There’s even a book written about it by NYT journalist and former Paris denison, Elaine Sciolino. I liked it so much I included it on my list of the 20 best books about Paris.

On Rue des Marytrs you can buy anything. And there is a speciality shop for everything, from rare cheese to sponge cake to gourmet dried herbs. So numerous are these single product shops that French food critics have dubbed Rue des Martyrs the “La Rue du Monoproduit.”

In the days of massive groceries and malls, Rue de Martyrs is a breath of fresh air. It’s a great alternative to Rue Cler, which is now uber popular thanks to Rick Steve’s endorsement.

9. Marie de Medici Fountain: a Slice of Italy

Luxembourg Gardens is one of Paris’ ever-so-pretty green spots, full of architectural delights. It’s essentially an outdoor sculpture museum, and you shouldn’t miss it.

Dating from 1612, the sun-speckled gardens feature heavily in Victor Hugo ‘s romantic novel Les Miserables . They were frequented by the real life philosophers Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.

Marie de Medici, Henry IV’s widow, commissioned the Luxembourg gardens in the 1630. They were styled to emulate the Boboli Garden of the Pitti Palace , Medici’s childhood home in Florence .

The crowning glory is the incredibly romantic Marie de Medici Fountain. It’s a grotto-like monument designed to emulate water seeping from the stones.

Luxembo urg Gardens itself is an outdoor sculpture museum. You’ll find gorgeous sculptures by Auguste Rodin, Ossip Zadkine, and Aime-Jules Dalou. And a replica of a bronze model for the Statue of Liberty.

Click here to book a guided walking tour of the gardens.

Where to find the Medici Fountain : rue de Médicis in the Luxembourg Garden, 75006 Paris

10. Abbey Bookstore

Located in the Hotel Dubuisson, the Abbey Bookstore is a charming anglophone bookstore in the Latin Quarter . It sells new, vintage, and rare books, lovingly offered up in massive floor to ceiling piles.

The bookstore also serves coffee and the delicious smell wafts among the books. You’ll find the Abbey Bookstore on Rue de la Parcheminerie, a tiny lane dating from the 13th century. It’s just 5 minutes from the much more famous Shakespeare & Co bookstore.

If you do visit the Shakespeare shop, you’re right near another Paris hidden gem and unique piece of street art — the Salvador Dali sundial on Rue Saint-Jacques. It depicts the head of a woman in the shape of a shell.

Address : 29 rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris

11. Saint-Etienne-du-Mont Church

If you’re visiting the Pantheon in the Latin Quarter, don’t miss this secret hidden gem next door. Saint-Étienne-du-Mont is the final resting place of Paris’ patron saint, Saint Genevieve.

The exterior has an asymmetrical design, with a tall belfry on the left side. It was originally just extra space for an abbey founded by Paris’ first king, Clovis.

But the French revolutionaries didn’t like abbeys and targeted established religion. So the abbey (like the College des Bernardins) was suppressed. The abbey was demolished except for the Clovis Tower, which can still be seen from the church grounds.

Inside, there’s an elaborate and rather unique rood screen, which separates the chancel from the nave. It’s flanked by two distinctive spiral staircases and is the only one of its kind in Paris.

The stained glass dates from the 16th and 17th centuries. The church was heavily damaged during the French Revolution, like so much else, but was restored in the 19th century.

Address: Place Sainte-Geneviève, 75005 Paris

2. Passage Mouffetard: Tiny Secret Passage

Rue Mouffetard is one of the most famous streets in Paris’s Latin Quarter. It’s located along the Place de la Contrescarpe.

Rue Mouffetard is one of Paris’ oldest streets. It has adorable haphazard crooked cobblestones and food stalls. In another life, it was the main road of Roman Lutecia.

But hidden off the lively Rue Mouffetard is a secret passage almost no one knows about. It’s a charming and very discreet haven of peace, jealously protected by its inhabitants. It’s accessed through a narrow door glued to a souvenir store.

There, you’ll find a hidden cobblestone street full of potted plants and hanging vines. Compared to the bustle of Rue Mouffetard or Paris’ arcaded passages, it’s deadly quiet and peaceful.

Address : Near 52 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris

13. Fountain Des Innocents Near Les Halles

One of Paris’ most ornate public fountains is the Fontaine des Innocents. It’s located in the 1st arrondissement near Les Halles and the Pompidou Center. Built in 1547-50, it’s Paris’ oldest monumental fountain.

The fountain is covered in mythical sea creatures, tritons, and nymphs. It was designed by Pierre Lescot, who was reputedly inspired by the Nymphaeum in Rome, and sculpted by Jean Goujon. It’s lit up during the holidays.

The Fountain of Innocents rests on the grounds of the former Holy Innocents’ Cemetery, which has a lurid backstory. The square was once virtually a mass grave, where Parisians simply dumped bones.

When the site became an unsanitary decaying mess, the bones were exhumed and moved to the Paris Catacombs.

Address : Place Joachim du Bellay, 75001 Paris

14. Eglise Notre-Dame-de-Lorette

At the bottom of the Rue des Martyrs in the 9th arrondissement is a graceful Paris hidden gem, the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette church. Built between 1822-36, it was classified as a historic monument in 1984.

Don’t let the name fool you. It’s not Gothic like it’s namesake. It’s a more classical Romanesque style.

If you walk down Rue Laffitte, you’ll see Notre Dame-de-Lorette with the Sacre Coeur as a backdrop. It’s a gorgeous view.

Notre Dame-de-Lorette is somber and monumental on the outside. But on the inside, it’s richly decorated and beautiful. It has a sumptuous dome and a highly detailed ceiling with floral accents.

Address : 18 bis rue de Châteaudun 75009 Paris

15. Eglise Saint Sulpice & the Drunken Boat Poem

If you’re in the chic Saint-Germain-des-Pres area, take in the 17th century Saint Sulpice, with its charmingly mismatched towers that seem to float over a quasi-Greek temple. It’s right next to the Luxembourg Gardens.

Saint Sulpice is a vast church, a massive hodgepodge really, second in size only to Notre Dame. Victor Hugo, who disliked “pretentious” neoclassical architecture, derided Saint-Sulpice’s two towers as “two giant clarinets.”

But inside, you’ll find real treasures — a magnificent organ and gorgeous restored murals by famed French painter, Eugene Delacroix.

Part of the movie The Da Vinci Code was set in Saint Sulpice, though filming was prohibited inside the church. The church doubled as the headquarters of the Priory of Sion.

Just steps from Saint Sulpice on 4 rue Ferou, you’ll find another hidden gem, Le Bateau Ivre , which translates as The Drunken Boat . It’s a poem by a then 16 year old Arthur Rimbaud inscribed on a stone wall.

Address : 2 Rue Palatine, 75006 Paris

16. Place Dalida, Secret Montmartre

The secluded Place Dalida in Montmartre is one of the prettiest spots in Paris. It’s a lovely escape from tourists.

The square lies at the intersections between Rue Girardon and Rue de l’Abreuvoir (the latter being my pick for the prettiest road in Paris).

READ : Complete Guide To Attractions in Montmartre

In the center, you’ll find a statue of French singer and music icon, Dalida. She gained international fame at just 19. Her personal life was tragic, even by celebratory standards.

She committed suicide at 54. Dalida is buried in the nearby Cimetière de Montmartre, an evocative cemetery in Paris (and yet another secret spot in Paris).

You’ll notice that her statue is shiny and well worn in the upper torso. Tourists love to rub Dalida’s breasts for good luck.

Click here to book a guided walking tour of the hidden gems of Montmartre.

Address : Place Dalida, 75018 Paris, France

17. Colonnes du Buren: Art Installation at the Royal-Palais

Just steps away from the throngs of tourists swamping the Louvre is the Palais- Royal. Its garden is a beautiful refuge in the center of Paris. In an inner courtyard of the Palais-Royal, called the Cour d’Honneur , you’ll find a controversial, avant garde art installation.

The installation sits, rather antagonistically, in what used to be the palace’s ugly parking lot. Created by acclaimed French conceptual artist Daniel Buren in 1985-86, the art installation is titled Les Deux Plateaux. It’s commonly referred to as the Colonnes de Buren.

The Colonnes is a walk in structure of 260 black and white candy striped columns of varying heights arranged in a dizzying array of monochromatic swirls. When the installation was unveiled, in typical fashion, Parisians gave the Colonnes a poor reception.

But the Colonnes quickly became popular among strolling Parisians, skateboarders, and nearly everyone really. The space seems alive.

If you’re an Instagrammer, the Colonnes are a good alternative to the oversaturated Rue Cremieux. Here’s my complete guide to the Colonnes .

Address : 8 Rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris

18. The Gorgeous Art Nouveau Door on Avenue Rapp

At 29 Avenue Rapp, you’ll find what I think is Paris’ most gorgeous door.

It’s right near the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides in the 7th arrondissement. Looking at it, you’d almost think you were seeing a Gaudi building in Barcelona .

Designed by Jules Lavirotte, the striking door depicts a lush Garden of Eden. At the top of the door, is the architect’s wife, Ms. Jules Lavirotte, shown with her fox stole. She’s set amid sinuous flowing vines and Adam and Eve sculptures, in near ornamental delirium.

Lavirotte was an anti-Haussmann Art Nouveau architect, whose risky fin de sciecle style is described as decadent Baroque. Not surprisingly, this door won the annual Paris facade competition in 1901.

There’s another pretty Art Nouveau door nearby at 3 Rapp Square. From the garden area at the end of Square Rapp, you also have a sweet view of the Eiffel Tower.

Address : 29 avenue Rapp, 75007 Paris

19. Pere Lachaise Cemetery: Visit France’s Brilliant Mind

Pere Lachaise Cemetery is Paris’ village of the dead. It’s an off the beaten path gem on the outskirts of Paris in the 20th arrondissement.

Steeped in history, Pere Lachaise is the perfect place to walk among the dead and feel oddly connected to them.

Pere Lachaise’s appeal lies not just in death, but in the fact that it’s a brooding aggregation of French culture. Hundreds of celebrities, writers, artists, and musicians are buried there. This is where you come to honor the brilliant minds.

Pere Lachaise has a beautiful collection of funereal art. The most famous graves are those of Oscar Wilde, Frederick Chopin, and Jim Morrison.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Pere Lachaise Cemetery . Click here to book a guided walking tour of the cemetery.

Address : 16 rue du Repos Paris

20. Pavilion de la Reina: a Jewel Within a Jewel

The Pavillon de la Reina is a luxury hotel in the Marais, dating from the 17th century. I don’t usually include hotels on my hidden gems lists.

But this one is just so lovely (as is the Relais Christine on the Left Bank). The hotel, which means the Queen’s pavilion, once housed Queen of Austria in the 1600s.

The Pavillon de la Reina is an ivy covered building on the elegant Pace des Vosges, the zip code for French aristocracy. You should definitely stroll by for a peak. If you have time, take the glass side door and head to the inner courtyard for a glass of wine in paradise.

Address : 28 Place des Vosges, 75003 Paris

21. Expiatory Chapel: a Marie Antoinette Site

The Expiatory Chapel lies in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, in the Square Louis XVI, off Boulevard Haussmann. It’s one of the Marie Antoinette sites in Paris . (Click here to book a guided walking tour about the French Revolution and Antoinette.)

The chapel is placed on the site of a mass graveyard from the French Revolution, where Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI bodies were unceremoniously thrown after their executions.

In 1814, the monarchy was restored. In 1815, Louis XVIII, Louis XVI’s brother, commissioned a chapel in memory of the duo. It was intended to represent France’s atonement for regicide. In 1914, the chapel was listed as a Historic Monument.

Built by Francoise Leonard Fontaine, the chapel is Neo-Classical in style. Inside, there are sculptures of the royal couple.

Marie Antoinette is shown kneeling to religion. You can also read etched versions of Louis XVI’s will and the last letter written by Marie Antoinette (though the latter is of disputed authenticity).

Address : 29 rue Pasquier, 75008 Paris

22. Arenes de Lutece: a Slice of Roman Paris

Lutetia or Lutece was one of Paris’ first names, used during the Gallo-Roman period. If you’re a history buff like me, you’ll be happy to hear that vestiges of ancient Lutetia can still be found in Paris today.

The most significant ruin is the Arenes de Lutece, in the 5th arrondissement. Built around 200 A.D., it was one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in Roman Gaul, though not as large as the ones you’ll find in southern France .

The Arena seated around 15,000. If you look closely, at the base of the bleachers, you’ll see rooms where the Romans kept caged animals.

Over the centuries, it was buried under expansion detritus and used as a graveyard. In 1869, the arena was re-discovered during the Haussmann construction of Rue Monge.

As with Notre Dame Cathedral, a group led by Victor Hugo rescued Arenes de Lutece from the city planner’s wrecking ball.

Today, little remains of the original grand amphitheater. What you see is only 1/3 of its original size. The arena is mostly used by teenagers playing soccer.

Address : 47 rue Monge Paris

23. Paris’ Atelier des Lumière: Paris’ Digital Museum

If you’re looking for a twinkly indoor activity that’s visually amazing, you’ll love the Atelier des Lumiere , or Workshop of Light. It’s housed in an old factory in the 11th arrondissement. The workshop is a sort of contemporary digital art museum.

The Atelier des Lumiere has became a new cultural hotspot in Paris. It provides an immersive art experience, revivifying the masterpieces of seminal artists — with moving projections on the walls, classical music, and a dazzling light show.

You don’t see the paintings as the artist intended, in quiet reflection. But you may feel like you’re truly inhabiting the art, swathed in it from all angles and sides.

The Atelier just finished a Van Gogh exhibit and is now closed until February 28. Then, among other exhibitions, it will feature a show on Impressionism.

Address : 38 rue Saint Maur 75011 Paris

24. Hotel de Sens: Medieval Mansion Turned Library

As a lover of all things Gothic, the Hotel de Sens might be my favorite building in Paris. It’s one of Paris’ few remaining medieval buildings, located right in the heart of the Marais .

Hotel de Sens was once home to archbishopric of Sens. Now, it’s a specialist library.

The fairytale Hotel de Sens was commissioned and built in the 15th Century. It took 27 years to complete.

It was one of the first residences in the area. At the time, the Marais was a swampy marsh, not today’s chic hipster spot.

If you look at the facade of the Hotel de Sens closely, you’ll see a tiny metal cannonball stuck in the front of the building. It’s a relic of the French Revolution, which hit the building in 1830.

To the west, you’ll find a formal French garden dating from the Renaissance, which you can access for free. Just push open the green gate.

Inside, you’ll find the impressive  Biblioteque Fornay , a public library dedicated to the fine and decorative arts. It’s open daily from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm except Monday.

Click here to book a guided hidden gems tour in the Marais.

Address : 7 Rue des Nonnains d’Hyères, 75004 Paris

25. Musée de Montmartre: Museum of Fin de Siecle Paris

Now, it’s time for some small secret Paris museums . They’re so many lovely ones to choose from.

Everyone goes to Paris’ iconic Montmartre neighborhood. Almost no one goes in the museum. You should.

The museum’s a compelling charmer and full of history. It’s housed in an atmospheric 17th century manor house, Maison bel Air.

It has a beautiful inner garden with the famous swing from Renoir’s 1876 painting, The Swing , which is in the Musée d’Orsay. The garden’s been renovated to resemble the Renoir painting more closely.

Founded in 1960, the museum chronicles the raucous, bohemian history of late 19th century Montmartre. It captures a celebrated time, steeped in history and immortalized in art.

Artists like Pissarro, Picasso , Toulouse-Lautrec , Van Dongen, and Modigliani lived in Montmartre, and paved the way for modern art.

Here’s my complete guide to the Musee Montmartre . Click here to book a guided art walking tour in Montmartre.

Address : 12 rue Cortot, 75018 Paris

26. Musée National Eugène Delacroix

Bordering the Latin Quarter and the tonier Saint-Germain-des-Pres neighborhood is the Musée National Eugène Delacroix on the gorgeous Place de Furstenberg.

The Delacroix Museum is an eccentric little gem. It’s very off the beaten track and designed for art lovers. When I last visited, it was nearly empty.

The museum has an intimate setting, housed in Delacroix’s final apartment and studio before his death in 1863. I tend to love museum-ateliers. They’re so revelatory.

Delacroix is known as the founder of the Romantic Period of painting. He rejected the Academy’s idea of precise drawing. He adopted a flowing, convulsive brush style.

When you look at a Delacroix, you see “fuzziness, smears, fibrillating paint, irradiated color that destabilize space and emulsify objects.”

You won’t see anything as stunning as Delacroix’s famous Liberty Leading the People (that draws massive crowds at the Louvre ) at his studio.

What you’ll find is lush religious and historical paintings and drawings by Delacroix and others, as well as personal objects and mementos. Delacroix had an obsession with large cats, and you’ll see some of those paintings.

Address : 6 Rue de Furstemberg, 75006 Paris

27. Musée Zadkine & Sculpture Gardens

Two blocks from the lush Luxembourg Gardens, in the heart of Montparnasse, lies the secret Zadkine Museum , the Musée Zadkine. You can blink and miss it, it’s such a well hidden secret spot in Paris.

The Zadkine Museum is situated behind an industrial building that seems inconsistent with anything artistic. But just to the left is a small seemingly private driveway. If you follow it, you arrive at the Zadkine Museum. Voila!

The intimate museum occupies the first floor of a two story house and has an impressive sculptural garden. It was formerly Zadkine’s home and studio, where he lived and worked for 40 years.

The heart of the museum, much like Paris’ Rodin Museum , is the lovely garden and courtyard, dotted with terrific sculptures.

There, you’ll find Zadkine’s Torso of a Destroyed City , a smaller scale version of his most famous piece, The Destroyed City, in Rotterdam. Other seminal garden works include Orphee , Rebecca , and The Human Forest .

Address : 100 bis rue d’Assas 6th arrondissement

28. The Museum of the Romantic Life

The Musée de la Vie Romantique , or the Museum of Romantic Life, is located down a picturesque cobblestone street behind a wrought iron gate. The hidden gem museum is dedicated to the Romantic Period of French history.

It celebrates the lives and works of George Sand, a writer and libertine femme fatale, and Ary Scheffer, a Dutch painter.

With its creaking floors and curios, you can close your eyes and easily imagine yourself in the 19th century.

The most notable exhibit is a rather creepy voodoo-like display of a cast of Sand’s arm next to the hand of her piano playing lover, Frederic Chopin.

Some people make the pilgrimage to the museum just to see this exhibit. And for its secret rose-filled garden cafe featuring a satellite of the Rue de Martyrs’ Rose Bakery.

Address : 16 rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris

29. Musée Jacquemart-André: Italian Extravaganza

The Musee Jaquemart-André is another perfectly lovely and yet oddly overlooked hidden gem in Paris. The museum is located just off the Champs-Elysées in the 8th arrondissement. It’s usually empty unless there’s a special exhibition.

Then, the Parisians flock in and you’ll need to pre-purchase a ticket. When I was there one February, I seemed to be the only English speaking person in line.

The mansion dates to Baron Haussmann’s massive renovation of Paris. Édouard André and Nélie Jacquemart wanted their home to be as grand and beautiful as the new Paris. So they set about creating a gorgeous art collection and renovating the mansion to showcase their pieces.

There are some outright masterpieces. The museum has Dutch pieces by Rembrandt and Van Dyke and a large collection of 14th and 15th century Italian art.

The painting St. George and the Dragon is deemed one of the greatest achievements in Italian Renaissance art. Another astonishing piece is a massive 1745 Tiepolo fresco, which greets you at the top of the spectacular main stairway.

Here’s my complete guide to the Jacquemart-Andre . Click here to pre-book a skip the line ticket and audio guide for this magnificent museum.

Address: 158 boulevard Haussmann, 8th arrondissement

30. Musée Marmottan Monet: Monet’s Water Lilies

The Musée Marmottan Monet is an amazing Paris hidden gem tucked away in the 16th arrondissement where most people don’t venture.

It has a specially built gallery with an exceptional overview of the work of famed Impressionist artist Claude Monet — from his early caricatures to his late works of the lily pond at his home in Giverny.

The museum has over 300 Monets — the largest single collection of Monet. Most were donated to the museum by Monet’s son, Michel Monet, in 1966. If you love Impressionism or are an art lover in general, this is a must see museum in Paris.

The ground floor and upper floor of the museum hold a Napoleonic collection as well as paintings by Henri Renoir, Edgar Degas, Paul Gaugin, Edouard Manet, and Berthe Morisot. If you want to see more of Monet’s work, head to the Musée de l’Orangerie .

Click here to book a skip the line ticket and guided tour for the Marmottan. Or book a 2 hour guided tour with an art historian to learn all about Monet and Impressionism.

You can also read my guide to the museums in Paris with Monet works .

Address : 2 rue Louis Boilly, 75016 Paris

31. Montmartre Cemetery

Montmartre cemetery is quite beautiful. It’s one of the more interesting cemeteries in Paris. It boasts some beautiful funerary art and sculpture.

Artists, writers, and other famous Parisians are buried there.

Dalida is buried here. You’ll also find the graves of Impressionist painters Edgar Degas and Eva Gonzalez.

READ : Guide To the Impressionism Trail in Normandy

Address : 20 Av. Rachel, 75018 Paris

32. Ile de Chatou

The Ile de Chatou is a hidden gem in Paris known as the “Island of the Impressionists.”

It’s a tiny island on the Seine that was a hangout place and favorite haunt of the Impressionists. Chatou has been called the “prettiest place on the outskirts of Paris.”

In Chatou, you can walk in the footsteps of the Impressionists. The artists would meet in cafes, have leisurely luncheons, and go boating. They’d also set up their easels outside and paint.

On the island, you’ll find a marked Impressionism Trail created by the Musee Fournaise. It’s marked with signs with replicas of paintings by Monet, Pissarro, and Sisley.

You’ll see the same views that the Impressionists saw. You can photograph the same scenes that they painted.

The whole island has been renovated — the restaurant, museum, and boating workshop. Twice a year (March and October) there’s a huge Antique Fair held on the Island.

To get to Chatou Island, take a taxi. Or hop on the RER Line A to Germain-en-Laye. Disembark at Chatou Croissey. From there, it’s a 10 minutes walk. Or, you can take a river boat there on a full day tour.

33. 59 Rue de Rivoli

59 Rue de Rivoli is a former art squat right in Chatelet, the heart of Paris. Today, it’s a combination of an art gallery and artist studios.

The Haussmann-like building was originally owned by a bank, who abandoned the premises. The building was bricked up.

But some determined artists broke in and started working there. Others followed them.

At first, the government tried, but failed, to evict the artists. In 2005, the state purchased the atelier building specially for the artists.

There are up to 30 artists in residence at any given time. They stay for between 3-6 months.

They work and display art there. Many works can be purchased. Because the artists change over so frequently, every visit will be different.

The setting is unique. Every inch of the building is brightly decorated and painted. A spiral staircase, also painted, take you up.

59 Rue de Rivoli is one of the most unique things to do in Paris. You can see art being created and even interact with the artists.

34. Jardin Des Plantes

The  Jardin des Plantes  is another hidden gem in Paris in the Latin Quarter, a place where you can escape the city buzz.

It was originally founded in 1635 as the royal medicinal garden of Louis XIII. The gardens were later expanded in 1739 by Georges Buffon. They have since been renovated and reopened to the public in 2010.

There are three majestic avenues lined with trees, three greenhouses, a menagerie, bronze gazebo, and 18th century labyrinth. The menagerie (or zoo) is classified as a history monument. 

The gardens are on the grounds of  Paris’ Natural History Museum . It’s an old world museum featuring the evolution of animals. You’ll find the usual whale skeleton, taxidermied animals, and animal-centric interactive displays. 

Address : Place Valhubert & 36 rue Geoffroy-St-Hilaire, 5e

35. Cognacq-Jay Museum

The  Musee Cognacq-Jay  is a lovely small house museum containing a collection of 18th century fine and decorative art. You can visit for free. Despite this, it remains a hidden gem in Paris.

The collection was assembled by Ernest Cognacq and his wife, who founded the famous Samaitaine department store on Rue de Rivoli. It’s a personal collection that was bequeathed to the city of Paris in 1928. 

You’ll find art works by Fragonard, Boucher, Chardin, Reynolds, and Watteau. There’s also a rare collection of bejeweled snuffboxes and period furniture.

If you like Rococo art, the museum is definitely worth a visit and you can cover it in an hour or so.

Address : 8 Rue Elzevir

36. Institut du Monde Arabe

Inaugurated in 1987, the   Institute du Monde Arabe  is an amazing glass and steel building designed by Jean Nouvel. (He also designed the  Quai Branley-Chirac Museum .) The sleek facade has 1,600 aluminum prisms that open and close to regulate sun coming the building. 

The building is a cultural complex. Itwas the product of a joint Franco-Arab project intended to encourage cultural links between the West and the Arab world. 

The building has permanent and temporary exhibitions spaces, a library, bookstore, and auditorium. The permanent collection showcases the scientific and cultural achievements of Arab scientists. 

It also has a rooftop cafe (Lebanese) that offers up spectacular views of the Seine and Notre Dame.

Address : 1 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard

37. Maillol Museum

The  Maillol Museum  is a secret hidden gem and an unusual thing to do in the 7th arrondissement . 

It houses a full range of Aristide Maillol’s works and works by his contemporaries Matisse, Dufy, Bonnard, Rodin, and Gauguin. The museum also hosts some blockbuster temporary exhibitions.

Maillol was an early 20th century sculptor who helped shape the course of modernism. The artist’s lifelong obsession was the female nude. 

Maillol’s model and muse, Dina Vierny, opened the museum in 1995. It’s interesting to pair a visit here with the Rodin Museum. Maillol’s abstract and classicizing sculptures are in stark contrast to his contemporary’s emotional subjects. 

Here’s my complete  guide to the Musee Maillol . Tickets are € 14 and € 5 for audio guide. (The museum is not included in the  Paris Museum Pass .)

Address : 59-61 Rue de Grenelle

38. Palais Galliera

The  Palais Galliera  is a museum dedicated to high fashion and the history of fashion. Its official name is the Palais Galliera – Musee de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

It’s a hidden gem in Paris tucked away in the 16th arrondissement. The collection is housed in a Renaissance palace built by the Duchesse de Galliera, then Paris’ wealthiest woman. 

Newly renovated, the permanent collection takes a generalist approach to the history of fashion since the 18th century. You can admire designer costumes, jewelry, walking sticks, hats, shoes, bags, fans, gloves, parasols and umbrellas. You’ll find the big names — Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, and Galliano.

This museum is a surprisingly hot ticket in Paris. I was just there for a temporary exhibition on Frida Kahlo and it was completely sold out. No tourists, just locals.

Address : 10 avenue Pierre 1er de Serbie

39. Tintoretto’s The Last Supper

Are you a fan of the Venetian Renaissance? If so, one of the best hidden hidden gems in Paris is found in St.-François-Xavier Church .

Don’t be put off by the rather ugly exterior. Inside lies a little known masterpiece by Tintoretto, one of the great masters of the Venetian school. 

His painting of  The Last Supper  is in the “wedding sacristy.” It’s the only Tintoretto to hang in a Paris church.

Christ is in the center with a gold halo. The focus of the painting is which apostle will betray him. Though his back is turned away from the viewer, you can see Judas clutching a purse of silver pieces. 

You can only visit the church on Saturday from 9:00 am to noon or make an appointment at www.sfx-paris.fr.

Address : 12 Pl. du Président Mithouard

40. Remnants of City Walls Of Phillippe August

Down a lane in a courtyard off Rue Francs-Bourgeois, you’ll find a vestige of the city wall. It was built between between 1190 and 1220 by Philippe-Auguste.

The tower you see is a recent addition, but the original base is still visible. It was only saved by the intervention of Victor Hugo.

There is another impressive section of wall along Lycée Charlemagne. This is the longest conserved part with two towers and some traces of crenellations.

Address : 1 Rue Clovis, 75005 Paris

41. UNESCO House

UNESCO House  is a secret art museum hiding in plain sight in the 7th arrondissement. It’s a stunning seven floor Modernist building designed by some of the world’s most famous architects, including Le Corbusier and Walter Gropius. 

In 1995, Tadao Ando added a unique “meditation space” in the form of an irradiated concrete cylinder with flowing water. Ando’s intent was to create a space where people from all races and religions could pray for peace. 

You’ll also find a Zen garden, a panoramic terrace, and 600 works of art by artists like Picasso, Henry Moore, Joan Miro, and Alexander Calder. 

In the foyer of the Conference Halls sits Picasso’s largest work, the  Fall of Icarus  from 1958. Back outside, you can admire the Japanese Garden created by Isamu Noguchi. 

Visits can be organized for the general public. Contact  [email protected](link sends e-mail)  to register for a guided tour. The building also hosts concerts and has an interesting bookstore. 

Address : 7 Place de Fontenoy

42. Musee Cernuschi

The Musee Cernusch i is a hidden gem in Paris in the glamorous 8th arrondissement. It has one of the most important collections of Asian art in Paris, housed in a stately mansion.

It was once owned by economist and art collector Henri de Cernuschi, who often traveled to the Far East. Upon his death in 1896, he bequeathed his collection and his house to the French state.

The secret museum houses over 10,000 works of art in dramatic high impact galleries. Pieces include ancient bronzes, funerary artifacts, Chinese paintings, and rare Buddhist sculptures.

Address : 7 Av. Velasquez, 75008 Paris

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to hidden gems in Paris. You may enjoy these other Paris travel guides:

• 5 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 3 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 2 Day Itinerary for Paris
• One Day In Paris Itineraries
• Tips for Planning a Trip to Paris
• Tourist Traps To Avoid In Paris
• Top Attractions in Montmartre
• Top Attractions in the Latin Quarter
• Top Attractions in the Marais
• Top attractions in the Eiffel Tower district
• Secret day trips from Paris

If you’d like to visit Paris’ hidden gems and secret spots, pin it for later.

4 thoughts on “Hidden Gems in Paris, 40+ Secret Spots”

Fantastic list of off-the-beaten-path ideas to sneak away from the tourist hordes. Definitely gives me some ideas for deeper Paris explorations after we knock out the main highlights. Thanks!

You’re welcome Jason! Enjoy Paris.

Literally one of the only “secret” lists that i’ve looked at that had something i hadn’t seen before. well done!

That’s awesome! Love Paris. And there is always more to discover.

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Last Updated on September 6, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

7 Must-Visit Stunning Hidden Gems in France

Posted on Last updated: February 6, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » France » 7 Must-Visit Stunning Hidden Gems in France

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Planning a trip to France and want to explore the country beyond the famous attractions? Keep scrolling for my list of the best hidden gems in France worth adding to your itinerary!

This list of the best hidden gems in france was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

World-famous landmarks are the first to be included in most itineraries when planning a trip to France. But have you considered going to the country’s hidden gems?

After all, France is the most visited country in the world. The Eiffel Tower, Arc du Triomphe, and the Louvre Museum take a lot of credit for attracting many of the 85 million tourists that land in La Belle France every year.

Paris, the Alps, Dordogne , and Brittany get a good share of those tourists. Which is completely understandable, considering how strikingly gorgeous they are!

With that said, because there’s so much hype to explore famous French destinations and attractions, it can sometimes get crowded and a bit overwhelming.

If you are aiming to discover France sans the crowds, or you simply want to craft an itinerary that includes the highlights as well as secret spots that don’t make it to most guides, you’ve come to the right place.

France is home to a number of hidden gems that are still not on most travelers’ radars. These include picturesque hamlets, striking flower fields, small oceanside villages, and other natural treasures.

You can enjoy a more laid-back vacation or take a break from the hustle and bustle of the more crowded attractions. 

If love discovering hidden gems, which includes a few UNESCO World Heritage sites, here is a list of some fantastic hidden gems in France you’ve got to include on your itinerary.

Hidden Gems in France

1. conques in southern france.

Tucked away in the middle of a forest, Conques is a charming small town with half-timbered houses located in the Occitanie region in France. 

Just to give you an idea of how pretty it is, Conques was the inspiration for the opening scene of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast !

Being here will make you feel as though you stepped into a real-life fairytale town by simply walking its streets and alleys.

Winding narrow cobblestoned streets, quaint little cottages complete with charming rustic doors and window sills, and the enormous abbey church St. Froy make up this medieval picturesque town. This beauty is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical significance and Romanesque architecture.

Needless to say, almost everything is uber-Instagrammable in this tiny village. This includes the inside of its many quaint shops and crepe diners, making it a photographer’s dream come true!

2. Promenade Plantee (Paris)

You don’t need to venture outside of Paris to get off-the-beaten-path . Even if you’re short on time, you should still be able to fit in a few hidden gems in France if you’re visiting the capital.

The City of Lights has its very own hidden gems for you to discover if you’re in town and wish to escape the tourist crowds for a few hours.

One of them is the Promenade Plantee , also known as the Coulée Verte René-Dumont. In 1993, they built a 3-mile-long elevated park on an unused railway line. 

The promenade is a fantastic mix of modern architecture and landscaping with wild vegetation areas that begin behind the Bastille opera house and run to the Daumesnil Doree, where the shopping area is located. 

Surprisingly, most tourists and even many Parisians are not aware of its existence. So, it is an excellent spot to explore when you need to take a breather from it all.

You won’t only see rosebushes, hazelnuts, and lime trees that make up the Promenade Plantée, but you’ll also enjoy excellent views of the city.

As a fun fact, Coulée Verte René-Dumont was the inspiration behind the Highline in New York City.

3. Provence

The town of Provence is not too hidden anymore, especially because its striking lavender fields have become quite famous on Instagram in recent years.

What might come as a surprise is that lavender season is not the only harvest here. This opens up a few possibilities for visiting the area during the rest of the year without having to deal with large crowds.

Other amazing harvest seasons in Provence include saffron, truffles, chestnuts, and blackcurrant. Each one offers unique attractions, products on sale, and photo-ops throughout the year.

The place is also rich in French history and is perfect for history buffs.

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4. Cote D’Argent

If you dream of exploring gorgeous sandy beaches in France but are not too jazzed about dealing with swarms of people, the picturesque port town in Cote D’Argent is for you. 

Also known as the French Riviera, this 143-mile stretch of pristine beach facing the Mediterranean Sea is backdropped by sand dunes. These are lined by shrubs that mark the beginning of thousands of acres of stunning landscape. History buffs will be interested to know that this forest was planted by Napoleon III for his navy!

Cote D’Argent begins in Soulac-Sur-Mer, and ends in Hossegor, with small towns or isolated houses dotting the sand in between. If you aim to walk for miles without meeting a soul, head to this almost unspoiled coastline, a true hidden gem in France.

Saint-Girons Plage is a good base for exploring the whole area. It offers equipment rental and tours for kite-sailing, surfing, body-boarding, boating, and plenty of other water sports.

If biking is your thing, you’ll be more than happy riding La Velodyssée, a fabulous 750-mile cycle route along the French Atlantic coast.

5. Auvers-Sur-Oise

Even though it is pretty famous because it is the town where Vincent Van Gogh found a lot of inspiration before putting an end to his life, Auvers-Sur-Oise is pretty much underrated as a tourist destination.

Splendid wheat fields surround this lovely French village, which sits on the banks of the Oise River. Van Gogh spent the last 70 days of his life creating 70 works of art in 70 days in the quintessential French village, located about an hour by train from Paris. 

Whether you’re a Van Gogh fan or not, this must-see hidden gem in France has somehow managed to preserve its charm over the years.

A short train ride on the ‘train des impressionistes ,’ from Gare du Nord station will take you away from the hustle and bustle of Paris to the town the painter described as “gravely beautiful” to his brother Theo.

Once there, prepare yourself to immerse in the French impressionist era. Van Gogh was not the only master to spend some time here. 

Highlights include Château d’Auvers, Charles-François Daubigny’s old house and workshop, and the museum that bears his name.

Another must-see is the church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption , immortalized by Vincent van Gogh in one of his paintings. There’s also the Absinthe Museum and the artist’s final resting place.

This may be considered as a sleepy town, but its art and beauty are very much alive.

Lille is a former industrial powerhouse in northern France and the country’s fourth-largest city. 

Besides being a stunning cultural center filled with history and striking medieval architecture, Lille can be a less costly – and touristy – alternative to Paris.

It is conveniently located 160 miles from Paris, 69 miles from Brussels, and 182 from London. This makes it a superb hub for exploring other famous European cities on day trips .

With so much to offer, it is probably one of the most underrated cities in Europe. It’s a great off-the-beaten-path destination, which in turn is full of hidden gems in France.

While Lille is a big city, there are also many beautiful villages and towns around that you can visit.

Lille has something for every type of traveler. The entire city is full of impressive architecture and unique buildings, including the Cathedral of Notre Dame de la Treille and the Piscine Museum .

Art aficionados will love the Palace of Fine Arts . It features a nice collection of the works of Picasso, Monet, Rodin, and other world-renowned artists.

Citadelle Park is popular among nature lovers and history buffs. In the 17th century, Louis XIV asked Vauban to build the citadel for protection, and they built it with a park stretching around it. 

When you’ve finished sightseeing for the day, you can relax and dine at Grand Place (Grand Square).

7. Gorge du Verdon (Provence)

Gorge du Verdon is one of the most beautiful canyons in the world. It’s also the second largest in Europe, measuring 15.5 miles long and over half a mile in depth.

What makes it so unique is the unbelievable tone of the turquoise-green water. The views of the river from the mountain cliffs are mind-blowing. This makes it one of the most beautiful hidden gems in France.

You can make a day outing to the gorge while visiting the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southern France.

Or stay a few days in the nearby towns of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie if you want to explore as much as possible.

The Verdon River’s force formed the gorge, and it currently flows into a man-made lake, Lac de Sainte-Croix . Best of all, the area is so vast that there are different ways to explore it.

If you’re yearning for some water sports, swimming, kayaking, and boating are available at the Lac de Sainte-Croix. If you want to explore the dry side, you can go camping, hiking, and driving in the Gorges du Verdon Natural Regional Park , which will take you deeper into the gorge.

Stunning Hidden Gems in France Wrap-Up

Which are your favorite hidden gems in France? If you have any other recommendations for places to visit that aren’t as popular, please feel free to drop them in the comment section below.

Looking for more things to do in France? Check out my tips for visiting Paris for the first time , things to do in Paris with teens , things to do in Paris at night , Paris photo spots , how to book a Paris photographer , my kid-friendly 5 day Paris itinerary , day trips from Paris by train , 2-Day Paris Itinerary , family Paris vacation , and the best Paris tours for kids !

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

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

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

Eduardo_oliveros/Getty Images

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

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

Palace of Versailles

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

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

Eiffel Tower

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

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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

Châteaux of the Loire Valley

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

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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

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

Louvre Museum

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

Strasbourg Cathedral

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

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

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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

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

Saint-Tropez

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

Belle-Île-en-Mer

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

Porquerolles

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

Veuve Clicquot Champagne House

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

Arc De Triomphe

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

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

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

D-Day Landing Beaches

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

15 Hidden Gems in Nice, France (From A Local)

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Nestled along the azure shores of the French Riviera, Nice is the epitome of Mediterranean sophistication and coastal allure. With its Promenade des Anglais, vibrant markets, and a backdrop of pastel-hued buildings, Nice is a captivating destination where the elegance of the Belle Époque seamlessly intertwines with the sun-soaked ambiance of the Côte d’Azur, creating a timeless tapestry of history and modernity.

Ready to learn more about Nice’s hidden gems? In this interview, Camila Neves, a Nice resident, takes us off the beaten path.

Camila is originally from Brazil, although she has lived in many different places around the world. She moved to Nice a bit over a year ago, in November of 2023 on a working holiday visa.

At the time, she could have moved anywhere in France but decided on Nice because of its incredible weather (even in winter!) and all the day trip opportunities it offers.

Choosing Nice was by far one of the best decisions she’s ever made and today she spends her time sharing restaurant and hotel tips  on Instagram  as well as her blog.

Can you tell us a bit about Nice and why visitors should go off the beaten path to discover the city’s hidden gems?

Nice is a wonderful city! Located very close to Italy, there is amazing food and locals are very warm and open. The influence of its Italian neighbor is palpable in the delicious cuisine and the relaxed, friendly vibe of the streets.

Another thing I adore about Nice is that you get a little bit of everything: there’s the beach, Italy, dozens of day trips, hiking trails, and even ski resorts less than one hour away. 

However, it’s worth noting that Nice does get super busy during the summer, especially in May when the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival are in full swing. So, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and get a real taste of the city, it’s crucial to find hidden gems.

These lesser-known spots offer a more authentic and local view of Nice, away from the usual tourist tracks, and I think it’s important to find non-touristy places. to explore and get a more realistic and local view of the city.

What are 3 of the most unique and surprising hidden gems and secret spots in Nice?

During my time living here, I’ve been lucky to find a few very special places that most people don’t know about.

1. Chateau de Cremat

First is Chateau de Cremat, a winery in the surroundings of nice that can be easily reached by public transportation. An interesting fact about this chateau is that Coco Chanel used to come here all the time for parties and it is said that she got the inspiration for the iconic Chanel logo from the chateau’s logo with two intertwined c’s.

2. Zitto Speakeasy

Another favorite hidden gem of mine is Zitto Speakeasy, a speakeasy-themed secret bar in the port, hidden in the back of a restaurant. To visit the bar, you have to find the clues on their Instagram account. The best part is that the bar is also absolutely beautiful, very private, and has some of the best cocktails I’ve ever tasted.

Last but not least, a little bakery called Biobrod. Me and the baker slowly became friends and now I can’t go anywhere else! They have the most delicious bread, quiches, and most importantly, amazing pains au chocolat. A must!

Can you share your top 3 favorite non-touristy things to do in Nice that most visitors don’t know about?

Sure! There are a few non-touristy things I absolutely love doing in Nice. They are the real reason why I love living here so much and I like that I can enjoy them even during the really busy months.

4. Hiking along Sentier du Litoral

One of my favorites is hiking from the Nice port to Villefranche-sur-mer via the coastal path called Sentier du Litoral. The views are breathtaking, there are many hidden beaches and it’s not a difficult hike at all.

Once you get to Villefranche-sur-Mer, you can have lunch at one of the many amazing restaurants (Dry Bar & Restaurant and Alma are my favorites), explore the town, or even make your way to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, an incredible villa from the Belle Epoque.

5. Hanging out at Coco Beach

Hanging out at Coco Beach is another must-do in Nice. It’s this cool, local spot that’s perfect for catching some epic sunsets.

Imagine just chilling on the beach with the sound of the waves in the background. All you need is some tasty cheese, a bottle of good wine, and a crusty baguette, and you’re all set. It’s super laid-back and way less crowded than the touristy beaches.

6. Drinks in the port area or Liberation neighborhood

Lastly, if you want to dine and drink like a local in Nice, skip the usual tourist spots in the Old Town or Cours Saleya and head over to the port area or the neighborhood of Liberation. These spots are where the locals really hang out, offering a more authentic Niçoise experience. 

The port area, with its laid-back vibe, has some fantastic restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local wines while watching the boats come and go. It’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring and to feel the pulse of the city.

Liberation, on the other hand, is more of a hidden gem. It’s buzzing with local life, especially around the Liberation market, which is one of the best places in the city to sample fresh produce.

In the evenings, the neighborhood’s bistros and bars come alive, offering a great selection of local dishes and drinks in a friendly, unpretentious setting. Here, you can mingle with the residents and maybe even make some new friends!

Which is the most underrated neighborhood in Nice and why would you recommend visitors explore it?

7. cimiez neighborhood.

I would say Cimiez.

Cimiez is like a little oasis of calm perched up in the hills of Nice. It’s got this laid-back, elegant vibe that takes you back to the days when it was the go-to holiday spot for Queen Victoria and other important characters.

There you can find the Matisse Museum and (my favorite) the March Chagall Museum. Don’t miss the Cimiez Monastery either – it’s not just stunning, but the gardens have some of the best views of Nice.

And if you’re around during the Nice Jazz Festival, Cimiez is the place to be.

What is Nice’s best-kept food secret, and why should everyone give it a try?

It’s not really a secret but you should try socca when in Nice. It’s a type of pancake made of chickpea flour, and it’s so delicious.

9. Petit farcis

Another Niçoise meal worth trying is the petit farcis, a delightful dish featuring small vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat, garlic, and herbs, all baked to perfection.

These little stuffed veggies pack a flavorful punch, embodying the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. They’re a testament to the simple yet rich flavors that Nice’s culinary scene has to offer. Pair these dishes with a glass of local rosé or a crisp white wine. 

What are your 3 favorite off-the-beaten-path places to hang out in Nice?

As a coffee lover, I have some favorite cafés in Nice.

One is called Brume and it’s located in the Old Town. It’s very tiny, and cute and their cakes are amazing. I love that they have seasonal French toast with ingredients that change every season – and they are always delicious.

11. Full Bloom

Another one is Full Bloom, a new cafe where they sell different plants in addition to great coffee and pastries. This is a great place for vegetarians and vegans. They also have good gluten-free options.

12. The Greek restaurant located inside Hotel Amour

In terms of restaurants, my favorite is a Greek restaurant located inside Hotel Amour. It’s stunning, the food is delicious and the prices are great. Personally, I am a big fan of their roasted chicken and you also have to try their pitta bread and halloumi cheese appetizers.

Can you recommend 3 little-known local brands or shops in Nice that are 100% worth browsing?

No particular brands but walking around the Old Town you will find hundreds of tiny local boutiques with good prices and lovely clothes.

What is one of the most underrated day trips from Nice?

Well, there are obviously a lot of well-known day trips from Nice, like Cannes, Monaco, Antibes, Saint Paul de Vence, and so on, but if you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten path, you’ve got to check out places like Mougins and Parc National du Mercantour.

13. Mougins

Mougins is this stunning Provençal village where Picasso used to live. It’s like stepping into a postcard – think charming cobbled streets, art galleries, and cafes with the most amazing views. It’s the perfect spot for art lovers or anyone who just wants to soak up French village vibes.

14. Parc National du Mercantour

Then there’s Parc National du Mercantour, a massive and gorgeous national park in the Alps, less than two hours from Nice. If you’re into nature, this place is a must-visit. The park is huge, so there’s loads to explore and there are tons of hiking trails for all all levels.

So, while the more famous spots like Monaco and Cannes are also definitely worth visiting these lesser-known day trips offer a whole different experience and are perfect if you want to escape the city and dive into the natural beauty and quaint charm of the region.

Can you recommend a really cool, quirky, and unusual hotel in Nice?

15. hotel amour.

Again, Hotel Amour really stands out as a fantastic place to stay in Nice. This hotel isn’t just a place to rest your head; it’s full of character, has a unique flair, and has that cool, artsy vibe.

One of the highlights is definitely the beach club – very laid back, has good food and good parties at night – and the restaurant I mentioned before. And let’s not forget about the rooftop – it’s the perfect place to catch some stunning views of the city, especially at sunset, and has a lovely pool as well.

Any other tips for first-time visitors interested in exploring lesser-known sights and unusual places in Nice?

There are some tips for you to find less touristy places in Nice. First, when looking for restaurants, venture outside of Cours Saleya and the Promenade des Anglais. The smaller, the better.

These hidden gems often offer more authentic and intimate dining experiences, away from the typical tourist crowds. You’ll find charming bistros tucked away in quiet streets, serving delicious local cuisine that gives you a real taste of Niçoise culture.

It’s in these less conspicuous spots where you can enjoy leisurely meals, often at better prices and with a more personal touch from the staff.

Also, it’s a great idea to stay in a hotel or Airbnb outside the classic touristy route in more local neighborhoods like Cimiez and Liberation. These areas offer a more authentic Nice experience, allowing you to live like a local during your stay.

Cimiez, with its rich history and serene environment, and Liberation, known for its vibrant market and local vibe, are both excellent choices.

Staying in these neighborhoods not only gives you a different perspective of the city but also often means quieter, more relaxing accommodations. Plus, you get to explore parts of Nice that many visitors might miss, like local cafes, parks, and small museums, adding a unique layer to your trip.

Bio: Camila Neves is a full-time travel blogger and content creator based in the South of France. She dedicated her time to finding the best addresses and hidden gems on the French Riviera and sharing them on  her blog .

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20+ Hidden Gems & Best Kept Secrets of Eastern France

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 23rd November 2023

Categories France , hidden gems

Last Updated on 23rd November 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Travel in the East of France and you’ll soon discover timber-framed towns, long-forgotten cities, countless Roman ruins, and a gourmet scene that’s enough to make any foodie drool. Here are the best-kept secrets of Eastern France !

Between bustling Paris, the wild and rugged coastline of Brittany, and the glittering Azure Blue Sea of the South, Eastern France often misses out on much of the press it so rightly deserves in lieu of its better-known and significantly more popular neighbours.

Why you must visit Eastern France

#1 the underrated city of metz, #2 dole, the town of louis pasteur, #3 the pastel-hued city of mâcon, #4 the mountain resort of châtel, #5 evian-les-bains, home of evian water, #6 the roman city of vienne, #7 the unesco citadel of besançon, #8 varennes and the flight of louis xvi, #9 hostellerie du château des monthairons , #10 abbey of st germanus in auxerre, #11 the timber-framed city of chalon-sur-saône, #12 follow in the footsteps of joan of arc, #13 reims underground tunnels, #14 discover the many hidden gems of dijon, #15 the picturesque town of eguisheim, #16 niedermorschwihr, #17 the secret history of strasbourg, #18 kaysersberg, #19 dragées braquier factory, #20 discover the secret side of lyon, #21 faux de verzy, map of the best places to visit in eastern france, things to know before visiting the east of france, enjoyed reading about the best kept secrets of eastern france pin it now, read it again later:.

Historically, the region is made up of five distinct regions. Though these have since been swallowed up by much larger administrative areas, each region retains its own distinctive cultural and historical feel.

Filled with varying architectural styles, unique foodstuffs, and in some cases, even their own language, the regions are Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne , Franche-Comté, Lorraine , and the Rhône-Alpes. Some of the best reasons to visit the East of France include getting to see a side of l’Hexagone that’s a little off the beaten track.

From cities where few tourists venture into to centuries-old abbeys where the relics of Saints are now alleged to lie, there’s something for every interest when it comes to this little parcel of Europe.

And of course, there is perhaps no wine in the world quite as famous as the rich reds of Burgundy. After all, the most expensive wine in the world can be found along the UNESCO Route des Grands Crus.

Best places to visit in the East of France

Just a half-hour drive from the small and landlocked country of Luxembourg, the stunning settlement of Metz is a highly underrated city with plenty to do and even more to see.

Situated at the confluence of the River Moselle and the River Seille, some of the best things to do in Metz include wandering around the Centre-Pompidou Metz art museum and admiring the 13th-century Porte des Allemands.

If you’re looking for an off the beaten tourist track town with plenty of history, then you should stop your search now. Dole is a charming city built alongside the River Doubs in the Jura region.

Constructed around the Collégiale Notre-Dame de Dole , there’s a free museum fill of Roman artefacts and many a cobbled lane worth strolling along. Situated somewhere on the train line between the mustard city of Dijon and the greenest city in France, Besançon, Dole also happens to be the birthplace of Louis Pasteur ,

Pasteur is the man who discovered the rabies vaccination and pasteurisation, among other things. While in Dole, be sure not to miss out on other French attractions such as the hospital turned library (Hôtel Dieu de Dole) and the pretty walkway along Canal des Tanneurs.

With a Provençal feel and plenty of wonderful weather to match, the Southern Burgundy city of Mâcon is a must-see on any visit to Bourgogne, especially so if you’re looking to experience the Beaujolais wine region.

Highlights of this Saône side city, which is known as Mascon in English, include the ruins of the once impressive Old Cathedral of Saint Vincent and the timber-framed oldest house in the city.

If you’re visiting in the spring, then plenty of beautiful cherry blossom can be found in a car park close to the Musée des Ursulines, a town museum housed within a former convent.

And if you’re looking for an extra luxe stay during your time in Eastern France (at a very reasonable rate) , then I highly recommend booking a room at the Panorama 360 . The four-star hotel even has a sky bar where you can sip on a kir while watching the sun go down.

Less frequented by international tourists than many other ski resorts in France, Châtel is not only a winter destination but also a well-sought out summer spot for adventure activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

One of many resorts along the Portes du Soleil complex, a stretch that encompasses some 650 kilometres of ski trail. While in the area, be sure to visit the beautiful Saint-Laurent Church, as well as sample locally made Abondance Cheese .

Situated on the border with Switzerland and quite literally located on the ever-glittering Lake Geneva, Evian-Les-Bains has been a lakeside getaway for the French since at least the 19th-century.

Main attractions of Evian-Les-Bains include the Palais Lumiere (which houses Picasso artwork) and sampling Evian water at source from the Source Cachat. In the winter, the town is close to nearby mountains for skiing.

Today, the town is most synonymous with Evian bottled water, though the city also has plenty of world-famous spas thanks to the alleged special properties of the mineral water found in the area. If you have a little more time while in the area, be sure to catch the ferry to the other side of the lake so as to explore the Swiss city of Lausanne .

Of course, everyone has heard of Lyon, the third-largest city in France, but not everyone has heard of the pretty city of Vienne , the other Roman city of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

Once known as ‘Vienna’ and one of the most important cities in Roman Gaul, today Vienne is a small city characterised by its many Roman ruins. One particular of the city by the River Rhône includes a Roman Theatre that once seated some 10,000 people.

Elsewhere in Vienne, the magnificently preserved Temple of Augustus, an ancient place of worship that only survived thanks to its transformation into a church many centuries ago.

While in the area, there’s also breathtaking views of the Château de la Bâtie, as well as the Museum and archaeological site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal.

Dubbed France’s ‘greenest city,’ Besançon also happens to be the birthplace of Victor Hugo . There’s even a museum dedicated to the world-famous author on the very same square where the developers of the cinema, the Lumiere brothers, were born.

However, with this being said, it’s well worth noting that Hugo actually only lived in Besançon for six weeks before leaving, never to return again! Close to the border with Switzerland, you could easily spend a long weekend meandering the city’s many quays.

Other highlights of Besançon include exploring the Roman ruins, and admiring the impressive astronomical clock of Besançon’s cathedral. And for the history buffs, there are even the UNESCO Vauban fortifications, which merit half a day of exploration in their own right and date back to the 17th-century.

What you may well not know about North Eastern France is that there’s plenty of Renaissance history to unpack within the region. For example, somewhere in a rural region of Meuse, the small village of  Varennes-en-Argonne (also known simply as Varennes) is where Louis XVI was captured together with Marie-Antoinette following his attempted escape from France during the French Revolution.

I must admit that my first stay in a French Château truly was one of those ‘pinch me moments’ that you can’t quite express with words. And so, if you’re looking for a fairytale French château stay in Eastern France, then you simply must book a stay in Hostellerie du Château des Monthairons .

Located in several dozen acres and with no less than two chapels on-site(!!), the hotel is laid-back, warm, and friendly. While the rooms are a little dated in their decor, the setting itself is simply beautiful, not to mention that the food on offer for dinner and breakfast is simply delicious.

Though the city of Auxerre is undoubtedly best known for its imposing clock tower , there’s much more to this compact city than meets the eye. Characterised by its three impressive churches (an Abbey, a Cathedral, and a Church) , Auxerre lies alongside the River Yonne and is filled with timber-framed houses and cobbled lanes.

Truth be told, the most important ecclesiastical building in the city is the Abbey of Saint Germanus, a building named for a bishop of the city in Late Antiquity. If you speak French and you have some spare time, then be sure to embark on a guided tour of the Abbey and its associated buildings.

Deep in detail, this 1.5 tour will show you hidden gems of the Abbey, including parts of the Merovingian cathedral and 9th-century beautifully preserved frescoes. For more information about this beautiful place to visit in Eastern France, check out our guide to the best things to do in Auxerre.

When you imagine Burgundy (or Bourgogne as it is so-called in French) , you likely picture the Hôtel Dieu of Beaune or the Cathedral of Dijon. But what you may not know is that there also plenty of other cities in the region that have just as much to offer the visitor in the form of museums, beautiful views, and plenty of history.

Chalon-sur-Saône is set across mainland France and a small island in the centre of the River Saône. Of particular note is a series of statues and museums dedicated to Nicéphore Niépce, the man who took the earliest surviving photograph . Elsewhere in the city, the cathedral square is home to many a timber-framed house and is the perfect spot to stop off for a coffee break.

Domremy-la-Pucelle is alleged to be the birthplace of Joan of Arc and there are many small towns and cities where Jeanne d’Arc is alleged to have attended services, marched through, or simply rested within during her travels through France during the 15th-century.

And when it comes to Eastern France, several cities display plaques, denoting that d’Arc once passed through. Among these towns are Auxerre, Sens, and the medieval city of Provins. Today, if you want to follow in the French heroine’s footsteps now, here’s a guide to Joan of Arc in France .

Though Reims may be most famous as being the capital city of Champagne , what many visitors to the city don’t know is that there is a plethora of history to the city that predates even the invention of the bubbly French tipple (even though that’s many visitors’ main reason for frequenting the region) .

You see, Reims was an important city during the Roman era, and the chalky ground beneath the topsoil was perfect for mining.

While the Romans would have quarried the chalks, centuries later people realised that the underground tunnels that ensued as a result of the mining were perfect for storage, particularly that of Champagne.

Today, the tunnels are UNESCO world heritage listed and you can even often visit them for yourself should you opt to take a Champagne House tour.

Of course, between a library overlooking Reims Cathedral and hidden churches across the city, Reims also has plenty of other secrets to uncover. Check here for the best-kept secrets of Reims .

Once upon a time, Dijon was the French capital city of mustard. And while there are no houses producing the piquant sauce within the city itself, there remains ample opportunity to go mustard tasting in Dijon .

Otherwise, while the Burgundy settlement is by no means a hidden gem, there are still plenty of secret spots in Dijon that you’ll want to discover for yourself on your next trip to Bourgogne.

For example, did you know that Gustave Eiffel was born in the city? Or that there’s a café bookshop in the very heart of town? And so, if you’re looking to escape the crowds of Paris and don’t wish to stay for too long in Beaune, then I highly recommend heading to Dijon next time you’re in Eastern France!

Though some of the biggest cities in the Alsace Region of France are Strasbourg and Mulhouse, followed closely by the often underrated city of Colmar , there are plenty more smaller and off the beaten path towns and villages worth discovering, if only you know where to look.

For example, the charming French settlement of Eguisheim is to be found just a fifteen minute drive from Colmar and is a picturesque timer-framed throwback to centuries gone by.

Surrounded by rolling hills and lush green hills, Eguisheim is located on the Alsace wine route and is best-known for the three castles of Eguinsheim, a set of ruinous sandstone fortifications which date all the way back to 1006!

One of the best-kept secrets of the Alsace region in Eastern France is easily the tiny village of Niedermorschwih r. Characterised by its tiny nature and surrounded by swathes of vineyards (the Alsace is one of the largest wine-producing regions in l’Hexagone) , the town has a selection of Alsace taverns serving a selection of regional food, as well as plenty of pretty timber-framed houses!

Of all the secrets of Eastern France, this matchbox-sized settlement is one of my favourites! Though the charm of this little village is actually its beautiful façades (there is little by way of tourist attractions), one of the most unique features of Niedermorschwihr is its church which boasts a crooked spire.

Of course, the capital city of the Alsace region, i.e. Strasbourg, is by no means a secret! However, what many people don’t know about is one of the most surprising (and tragic) episodes in the settlement’s long history. After all, during the 16th-century, the Strasbourg Dancing Plague overtook the city and resulted in the deaths of dozens of local residents.

One of the most charming and underrated towns of the Alsace is that of Kaysersberg, which is part of the wider commune of Kaysersberg Vignoble. The town lies along the Alsatian wine route and is full of timber-framed houses, with the hill it is set against being crowned with the ruins of an old castle.

The town is best-seen in the winter when the wonderful Christmas market takes place. For more inspiration, check out our guide to Kaysersberg at Christmas .

The  sweet factory of Braquier  makes the sweet treat that put the city of Verdun on the French foodie cultural map. The factory itself is a short drive out of town and can be visited for free.  Find more details here.

The Dragée is typically an almond coated in a hard candy shell and it was invented in an apothecary in Verdun at some point in the middle ages. Today, the sweet is often gifted at weddings, christenings, and communions.

Lyon can be found in Eastern France and is one of the largest cities that the country has to offer. Not far from the foothills of the Alps and the wine region of Burgundy,  Lyon  also happens to be a great base from which to base yourself to take  trips to the wider region .

Otherwise, if you’re short on time and want to discover the best that the city has to offer, be sure to check out our guide to spending  one day in Lyon. It’s also worth noting that, despite a vast city, Lyon also has plenty of hidden gems worth discovering.

One of the most unusual and unique things to do in the historic French region of Champagne is to visit the Faux de Verzy  (forest of Verzy) , an enchanting and magical forest that boasts just under a thousand unique dwarf beech trees.

A faux is a dwarf beech tree  (fau being the old French word for beech and faux being the plural) . There are also dwarf oak trees and dwarf chesnut trees in the forest. A visit to the forest is free and it is truly remarkable to see such unique trees all in the same place.

Nearly all the major cities and towns found within the region can be reached by either train or bus. You don’t need to generally book tickets in advance and train travel is, for the most part, inexpensive.

However, due to the more rural location of many of these destinations, accommodation is more limited and is often more expensive. Check here for accommodation in South-East France and here for accommodation in Franche-Comté .

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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In Photos: 10 Secret Travel Destinations in France

By Lucy - 4 min read

Take the road less traveled.

If you are planning a trip to France, you are in good company: The country is the most popular travel destination in the world, with Paris taking the top spot as most visited city in the world. So why not stray from the masses and explore some of the places less frequently seen? After all, France isn’t just renowned for its hotspots but also for its diversity.

To give you some ideas, ease the planning, and possibly inspire the next trip, we have collected photos of 10 less-known travel destinations that our community members have shared on EyeEm. You won’t see the Eiffel tour here, but parts of the country full of natural beauty, tradition, and contemporary architecture.

La Camargue

Located in Southern France, this region includes one of the country’s largest nature reserves. It houses more than 400 species of birds, flamingoes, and even a bespoke horse breed: the white Camarguais.

By Arne B. Langleite

Les Calanques

More than just a place, Les Calanques are a region of rugged valleys with dramatic views across the Mediterranean Sea. Centuries of exposure to the sea have transformed its rocks into surreal shapes and steep cliffs.

Right where the Seine meets the English channel, there’s Honfleur, a traditional harbor city known for its historic port.

By Anna Kravtsova

This small town, located in the Easter Alsace region, is famous for its old town – and for being the center of the surrounding wine region.

La Dune du Pilat

It might seem strange to visit a sand dune, but this one – 60 km from Bordeaux – is the tallest one in the world. Try not to feel like you are in the desert when you stand on it.

By Baptiste

A historic walled city, St-Malo is located in the Brittany region and used to be a hotspot for pirates. Today, it has become a much more tranquil place:

By Bentom Wyemji

Renowned for its impressive white cliffs, Étretat is a commune in the Normandie that has previously attracted many of the great artists of the 20th century.

By Christiaan Verhulst

Viaduc de Millau

This bridge, spanning a valley in the South of France, is the tallest one in the world. It was designed by Sir Norman Foster and ranks as one of the great engineering achievements of our age. As much as we love photography: Pictures don’t quite do it justice.

By Laszlo Sandor

Gorges du Verdon

A canyon formed by the Verdon river, the Gorges du Verdon are where you can find deep blue water flowing among white limestone – a paradise for photographers.

By Andreas Wancura

Clos Montmartre

Paris might get a lot of visitors, but few of them every make it to this hidden gem: An actual vineyard, squarely in the middle of the French capital. “The Guardian” describes it as a sight not to be missed – and encourages you to “forget the Arc de Triomphe, Napoleon’s Tomb, and definitely the Eiffel Tower” for it.

Have we sparked your curiosity? See more unseen angles of France in our collection about France and Paris . Want to go somewhere else? Let yourself be inspired by browsing through authentic images about travel .

Header image by @annkravtsova .

November 19, 2022

Hidden gems in northern france, northern france itinerary.

Discover hidden gems in Northern France beyond the usual tourist routes. Explore enchanting towns, serene landscapes, and lesser-known places in this detailed guide.

I thought I’d share some hidden gems in northern France. So I’ve written some of my memories of a trip I took some time ago and hopefully it may inspire some of you to take on a similar itinerary.

I set off with some friends for a week away in the car to try and pack in as many sights and sounds as we could without spending most of the time in the car. It worked out pretty well all in all.

So read on to discover the delights of northern France.

Northern France guide

Here I will guide you through my trip day by day, and give you some ideas on where you could visit on your trip to Northern France.

Day 1: Dover – St Omer

Having dodged the baulk of the traffic en route to Dover, we spent an hour aboard the ferry before the joy of seeing Calais and its roads free from cauliflowers or cabbages courtesy of the permanently disenchanted farming community.

St Omer lay just a few minutes away, along with our first alfresco refreshment of the trip. St Omer is an ideal pit stop, especially if you’ve already had a long drive to the Kent coast. It has plenty of hotels, a decent town square, some pretty landscaped gardens to stroll around and plenty of places to eat.

We arrived mid-afternoon and after checking in to our hotel we enjoyed the gardens then settled in for a well-earned drink in the square, followed by a typical dinner of the region; savoury pancakes stuffed with ham and cheese, some simply cooked fish in beurre blanc and chocolate mousse. All in all, a solid start.

If you have more time to explore St Omer you will find that St. Omer is a charming commune in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, particularly noted for its rich history and distinctive culture. This unique locale is known for its stunning architectural landmarks, including the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saint-Omer, a Gothic architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the city's historical and cultural heritage. The winding, cobblestone streets of the city center are also home to many traditional shops and delightful bistros, offering an authentic taste of French culture.

Adding to its appeal is the Marais Audomarois, a remarkable marshland and a UNESCO world heritage site, which has a recognized biosphere reserve, located near by. The green, tranquil waterways of this marshland are often explored on traditional wooden boats, offering a picturesque and tranquil escape from the bustling city life. With its combination of history, culture, and natural beauty, St. Omer is a testament to the diverse tapestry that makes up France.

Day 2: St Omer - Arras

Our next leg of the journey was short, just a few miles south to the town of Arras.

Arras another one of my hidden gems, nestled in the heart of the Hauts-de-France region, is an alluring city known for its historical richness and striking architecture. The city's most iconic sights are its two magnificent squares, the Grande Place and the Place des Héros, both framed by a stunning array of ornate Baroque buildings.

These squares, with their striking Flemish-Spanish style facades, are among the most beautiful in France and serve as lively gathering places for locals and tourists alike.

Arras is also renowned for its wartime history, most notably World War I. The Wellington Quarry, a network of underground tunnels built during the war, now serves as a moving memorial and museum. Just outside the city, the Canadian National Vimy Memorial stands on the site of a significant WWI battlefield, paying tribute to the soldiers who fought and died there.

Beyond its poignant history, Arras is a vibrant city with a lively arts scene, excellent dining, and a yearly carnival that's one of the oldest in France. Its blend of history, culture, and modern vitality make it a compelling destination in the north of France.

Similar in size to St Omer, Arras has the same feel to it and has plenty of spots to stay and eat in. We first headed out to visit the First World War monument at Vimy Ridge and the nearby trench works that have been maintained as they were a hundred years ago.

The sight of the narrow trenches and the crater pocked landscape is very moving and thought provoking. The many, many names inscribed on the walls of the monument itself are every bit the same. For anyone who has an interest in history or who wants to pay some respects to a generation that endured so much, it’s well worth a visit.

Lunch in Arras followed and then a lazy afternoon and a just a couple of drinks around the town.

Beautiful towns in Northern France

There is no doubt that there are many beautiful towns in northern France and the great news for us is that makes them easier to drive to then the south of France, going as far as the southern coast of France will add many hundreds of miles to your journey.

Day 3: Arras - Epernay

The next stage of our journey was around 90 minutes and took us to the heart of Champagne country.

Epernay, often referred to as the "Capital of Champagne", is an exquisite town situated in the northeastern part of France, in the region of Grand Est. This town is renowned worldwide for its extensive vineyards and grand champagne houses that line the famous Avenue de Champagne. This illustrious boulevard, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to prestigious champagne producers such as Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët, whose historic cellars offer guided tours and tastings of their esteemed vintages.

In the heart of Epernay, you'll find the magnificent Town Hall, a testament to the 19th-century architectural splendour, set within the beautifully manicured gardens of the Parc de la Mairie. Furthermore, the town is famed for its gastronomy, boasting a number of excellent restaurants that perfectly complement its champagne heritage. While Epernay's allure is undoubtedly its sparkling wine, the town's charm extends beyond the vineyards with its rich history, striking architecture, and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants, making it a must-visit destination in the Champagne region of France.

While we were in Epernay we took in a quick guided tour round the Dom Perignon cellars. However, to actually buy a few bottles of the legendary fizz we headed off the beaten track and into the hills to find some local smallholders. It didn’t take long.

An elderly lady was stooped over her broom, sweeping her drive as we pulled over and in some rather ghastly schoolboy French I inquired about the possibility of a “petit degustation” nearby. The old lady looked up and beckoned us in.

Thirty minutes later we left with several bottles for a pittance. The champagne was crisp and as good as anything six times the price. We tasted madame’s local version in her garage and as we began to leave, she tugged on my friend’s sleeve and handed us a bottle of pink. “Un cadeau” she said, smiling and thanked us for visiting. If you are going to buy while you are in the region, I couldn’t recommend this approach enough.

It beats the prices in Epernay or Rheims and it brings you into contact with some lovely people so if that isn't a hidden gem I don't know what is!

Don’t worry if you’re French isn’t great; as long as you make some sort of token effort you’ll be welcomed as a friend and treated to some delicious wines. If you are ever stuck for an idea for a day trip, then a look round the cellars of Dom Perignon would be a great place to discover.

Three and a half days in and all going well….in part 2 I’ll take you from dinner in the world’s smallest hamlet, to glorious chateaux and the rolling landscape of Normandy before the boat takes us home once again.

Following on we travelled from Calais to Champagne via St Omer and Arras. An amazing dinner, one of the most picturesque and complete Chateaus in all of France and a dalliance in the capital await before the home leg across Normandy and the boat back to England.

Day 3: Moussy

I've already told you how we took in trips to the Dom Perignon caves and bought ourselves some less pricey fizz out in the sticks. After loading the car up with the tempting refreshments we set off for our night in the region in the tiny hamlet of Moussy.

Moussy is a small but charming commune located in the Marne department in the northeastern Grand Est region of France. Despite its size, Moussy is an integral part of the region's globally renowned champagne production. It is nestled amidst lush vineyards, and some of the most esteemed Champagne houses source their grapes from this verdant area, making it an essential stop for wine enthusiasts.

While in Moussy, you can indulge in a delightful exploration of the champagne-making process from grape to glass, with several wineries offering insightful tours and tastings. The town itself exudes a tranquil ambiance, with quaint houses, narrow streets, and the quiet beauty of rural France.

As a less famous than some of its neighbouring towns like Epernay, Moussy really quailifies as a hidden gem in France. It offers a more intimate, peaceful experience of the Champagne region's rustic charm and timeless tradition of winemaking.

Moussy is just a few kilometres south of Epernay and we stayed at the Auberge Champenoise. The hotel is a basic, no frills affair but the restaurant….oh the restaurant.

Having dumped our bags and freshened up, we headed downstairs to eat and were greeted by a beautiful dining room situated in a conservatory. White linen adorned the tables and bow-tied waiters buzzed through the room.

We dined on oysters, sea bass, duck (in a delicious peach sauce), bourgoyne aligote, delicious desserts, coffees, and a couple of cognacs. I’ve visited France many times and this remains one of the very best meals I’ve eaten there.

We retired for the night happy (wine/cognac) and almost as full as the day itself had been.

Day 4: Moussy – Pierrefonds

Next up was a change of direction as we swung west towards Paris. On the way we took in the small village of Pierrefonds.

Pierrefonds is one of the most beautiful, and captivating villages nestled in the northern region of Hauts-de-France, France. Its most prominent and enchanting feature is undoubtedly the Château de Pierrefonds, a strikingly beautiful medieval castle.

This architectural hidden gem in France, was restored in the 19th century by the renowned architect Viollet-le-Duc, is characterized by its soaring towers, intricate stone carvings, and imposing defensive walls. It has been the backdrop for numerous films and television series, adding to its international fame.

Surrounding the village, the enchanting Forest of Compiègne offers visitors an extensive network of walking trails and scenic beauty, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Pierrefonds, with its tranquil lake, charming local shops and eateries, completes the picturesque setting.

This small village, rich in history and bathed in natural beauty, is a haven of tranquillity and a step back into France's medieval past. It offers a unique blend of architectural grandeur and serene countryside charm, making it a delightful detour off the beaten path.

The chateau avoided the terrors of the religious wars and 20th century conflicts and remains in all its near complete glory as the centrepiece of the area.

The view is breath-taking, and the town has hotels to accommodate the curious, so you can stay over as well as just pass through. We took in a lazy day and a break from the car and could not have spent it in a more gorgeous setting, a real hidden gem in France.

Day 5: Pierrefonds - Paris

We had planned some time in Paris to take in the sights and legendary cuisine and we clambered back into the car that morning with a full itinerary. Having arrived at our hotel we did the usual touristy things, seeing Notre Dame, Concord, Arc and Eiffel Tower. We ate in a bistro in Montmartre and enjoyed the buzz of the capital with all its easy charm and spectacular architecture.

Day 6: Paris – Honfleur

The day began with a gentle drive through the Norman countryside before we ambled in to Honfleur for our final gastronomic treat, lunch by the famous quayside. The sun shone brightly, and we relaxed and laughed about the week we’d had.

Honfleur, (Normandy region) of northern France, is a picturesque port town that has inspired artists, musicians, and writers for centuries. Its old, colorful harbor, Le Vieux Bassin, is particularly enchanting with its mirror-like waters reflecting the charming slate-covered houses and bustling sidewalk cafes.

Honfleur's rich maritime history is evident in its old docks, wooden Saint Catherine's Church—the largest church in France to be made from wood by shipbuilders—and the Musée de la Marine, which offers insight into the town's historic naval exploits. The town is also the birthplace of the impressionist movement, with artists like Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin having drawn inspiration from its unique light and captivating scenes. The Eugène Boudin Museum, located in the town, houses a collection of the artist's works, showcasing the region's artistic heritage.

From its idyllic narrow streets filled with art galleries and shops to its excellent seafood restaurants offering the bounty of the sea, Honfleur presents an alluring mix of history, culture, and coastal charm. It's a delightful testament to Normandy's diverse offerings.

Honfleur was the perfect way to round things off. Some sightseeing afterwards helped to walk off a few calories and then we bedded in for our final night. After that it was a quick jaunt round Le Havre’s hypermarket and onto the ferry home.

Weekend in Northern France

Our trip took us a week but you could certainly have a great weekend in Northern France if that is all the time you can afford. With a bit of careful planning you could get to experience some great sights, sounds and culinary delights that France has to offer. It really is one of the best places to visit and I highly recommend you try it.

You can contact me via our Facebook page (see below) and please do if you have found a hidden gem in France that I've missed, I'd love to hear about it.

Other hidden gems to try

We didn’t visit these places on this particular road trip but over the years these places listed below have been favourites of mine. They are not too far from Paris.

So if you are looking for a hidden gem in France you should certainly consider these places in close proximity to Paris, as they make for fantastic day trips.

Here are a few options:

Versailles: Just a short train ride from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a stunning masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, and its gardens are equally impressive. Versailles was the seat of political power in the Kingdom of France from 1682 to 1789.

Giverny: This small village is famous as the home of Claude Monet. You can visit his beautifully preserved home and the gardens that inspired many of his most famous paintings, including his Water Lilies series.

Fontainebleau: This town is home to the Château de Fontainebleau, one of the largest French royal châteaux, surrounded by a former royal hunting park.

Reims: If you're interested in champagne, consider a trip to Reims in the Champagne region. It's home to some of the world's most famous Champagne houses, such as Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger, which offer cellar tours and tastings.

Mont Saint-Michel: While it's a longer day trip, this island commune in Normandy is one of the most iconic sights in France. It's known for its stunning abbey, quaint shops, and picturesque views.

Chantilly: This town is famous for the Château de Chantilly, a historic château featuring an extensive art collection and a park. It's also renowned for its horse racing and whipped cream.

If you are planning a French road trip you should check out these important resources.

Driving in France Checklist

French Road Signs

European Breakdown Cover

Crit Air Sticker

The trip is only an example of course and if it’s inspired you to undertake a similar journey you can always tailor it to visit some places that we did not. Le Touquet, Amiens, the Normandy beaches all spring to mind but the choice is yours.

There are so many places to visit in Northern France as it is certainly one of the most beautiful places in the world. If you plan ahead and sort out your hotels and have the ferry sorted it’s a low cost, low stress option for a week away with a few friends. I hope you enjoyed reading about my experiences and that you feel enthused to try something similar.

If you are going to drive through France, make sure you read our Checklist for all the items you need to take with you.

Authored By: David Griffiths

David is passionate about driving in France. His first visit was a Eurotunnel trip just after it opened in 1994. David started his first motoring related website 10 years later in 2004.

The idea for the Drive-France website started in 2008 and he has owned and run it ever since. He now has the reputation of being one of the foremost authorities on Driving in France.

He has been the Managing Director of Euro Motoring Ltd since its inception in 2019.

I work very hard on this website!

Can you do me a quick favour in return for providing this free information? I'd really be grateful if you shared this post on social media and followed us.

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International Luxury Lifestyle Magazine

20 Best Hidden Gems in Paris, France

The city of Paris is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, however there are plenty of lesser known sights to explore. From secret spots to magnificent museums, it’s easy to get off the beaten track in Paris. Here are some of the best hidden gems in Paris, together with nearby restaurants that Parisian locals love.

Secret Spots in Paris

If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the City of Lights, then be sure to check out some of the city’s hidden gems. From quirky art galleries to picturesque gardens , there’s something for everyone to explore. So grab your map and get ready to discover some of Paris’ best-kept secrets!

Head away from the main tourist sights like the Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe and Louvre Museum and you’ll find some amazing secret Paris spots. These are a few of our favorite hidden gems in Paris to visit.

1. Palais Royal Gardens

The Palais Royal is a 17th century palace located in central Paris near the Louvre. It was the former home of Cardinal Richelieu, followed by King Louis XIV up to the French revolution.

These are actually the only gardens in Paris that are classified as a “ Remarkable Garden” by the French Ministry of Culture. They were created by Victor Louis in 1731 and are a real sanctuary on a Summer’s day.

On one side there’s a courtyard filled with black and white columns, designed by Daniel Buren in 1986. Flanked by contemporary and vintage fashion boutiques and stylish cafes , it’s a lovely place for a stroll and one of the best Paris hidden gems.

If you’re lucky you might come across a mysterious birdman, as we did. This gentleman who attracted all the birds to him.

He let us in on his secret, give them bread soaked in milk and they will eat out of your hand. We certainly had fun once we’d got used to them landing on us!

Address: Jardin du Palais Royal, 2 Galerie de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France

2. Le Marais Gardens and Mansion Houses

The Marais is one of the most unspoiled areas in Paris and Place des Vosges is a magnificent square, built by Henry IV in 1605. Although the square itself is quite well-known, if you venture into the side streets you’ll come across some lesser-known museums and parks that are really worth a visit.

Under the vaulted arcades of the Place des Vosges, there are some interesting art galleries and restaurants. L’Ambroisie and Restaurant Anne are two of the most well known Place des Vosges restaurants.

Le Marais has some amazing museums including the Carnavalet Museum , which is all about the history of Paris, and the Picasso Museum . The Hotel de Soubise is one of the most charming Paris hidden gems, housing the Museum of French History and the National Archives Museum.

We’d also recommend the  Musée Cognacq-Jay which has a superb collection of decorative items and art from the 18th century.

Robert et Louise is an unpretentious little steak house at rue Vielle du Temple in the Marais. You can sit at the communal table and tuck into delicious potatoes, wood-fire cooked meat and a tasty creme brulee to finish.

Address: Robert et Louise, 64 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris, France

3. The Passages of Paris

If you’re looking for untouristy and more hidden things to do in Paris, then head to the passages . The city has numerous covered malls dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, known as passages.

These days they house interesting shops and restaurants. One of our favourites is Galerie Vivienne , built in 1823 with mosaic floors and some great shops including Jean-Paul Gaultier.

Nearby you can find the Passage du Grand Cerf in rue Saint Denis near the Chatelet les Halles shopping area. It was built in 1825 and is almost 12 metres tall, with an impressive glass roof. The Passage des Panoramas is the oldest covered passage in Paris and can be found in the 2nd arrondissement at 11 Bd Montmartre.

The Galerie Vero-Dodat dates from 1826 and was one of the first passages to get gas lighting, in 1830. This shopping arcade houses two Christian Louboutin stores and the “By Terry” renowned make-up range.

A very cool option for a drink before or after dinner is Andy Wahloo on rue des Gravilliers. There’s a hidden Paris courtyard with Moroccan inspired decor.

It comes as no surprise that it’s owned by the Mazouz brothers who are behind Sketch and Momo in London.

A great place for dinner is Le Grand Colbert , which film buffs will recognize from the film “Something’s Gotta Give” with Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton. It’s a classic Parisian bistro serving up simple dishes like the roast chicken that Diane Keaton had in the film.

The building itself dates from 1825 and became a restaurant in 1900. It’s listed as a historical monument and has an impressive dining room with a mosaic floor as well as sculpted pillars in a Pompeian style.

Address: Le Grand Colbert, 2 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris, France

4. Promenade Plantee

One of our favourite secret things to do in Paris, this raised park was built on a disused viaduct and soars above the streets. The walk starts behind Bastille Opera House , passes above avenue Daumesnil to the Jardin de Reuilly and finishes at Porte Dorée near the Bois de Vincennes.

Also known as the Coulée Verte René-Dumont , quite a few Parisians don’t know of its existence. It’s a pleasant 4.7 kilometer scenic walk, which was completed in 1993. This Parisian walkway was the inspiration behind the Highline in New York.

The park is planted with many rosebushes, trees and climbing plants. You get a great view over the surrounding buildings like this Postmodernist masterpiece.

Although this looks like an Art Deco era building, it was completed in 1991. Designed by Spanish architect Manolo Nuñez-Yanowsky, it houses a police station.

Below the viaduct, there’s a good selection of design shops and some good brunch spots like Brasserie L’Arrosoir on Avenue Daumesnil.

Address:  1 Coulée verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France

5. Rue de l’Abreuvoir

Whilst Montmartre can be extremely busy, especially the area around Sacre Coeur Basilica, there are some lesser known streets that are well worth seeking out. Rue de l’Abreuvoir is one of our favorite Montmartre hidden gems, with its cobbled paving stones and pretty pink houses.

At the top of this picturesque Paris street, there’s La Maison Rose , one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris. The restaurant was painted pink by its original owners, Laure Germaine and her husband Ramon. Several famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Maurice Utrillo frequented this charming place.

Address: Rue de l’Abreuvoir , 75018 Paris, France

6. Montmartre Vineyard

Did you know that the only vineyard in Paris can also be found in Montmartre? Located on rue des Saules, La Vigne du Clos Montmartre vineyard holds an annual harvest festival, La Fete des Vendanges .

You can only visit Montmartre Vineyard as part of a guided wine tasting tour, however you can buy their wine all year round at the Musée de Montmartre and at La Maison des Epicuriens, 46 rue Lamarck.

Address: 18 Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris, France

7. The Sinking House

Also in Montmartre, don’t miss the incredible sinking house which you may have spotted on Instagram! You can find this building just next to the steps in front of Sacre Coeur. It’s an optical illusion, but if you rotate your photos it certainly looks like it is disappearing into the grass!

Address: 1 Rue Lamarck, 75018 Paris, France

8. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

One of the best hidden gems in Paris is the Buttes-Chaumont Park. Located in the 19th arrondissement in the North East of Paris, this is the fifth largest park in Paris.

It opened in 1867 and has several impressive features, including a 1.5 hectare lake around the Île de la Belvédère, a rocky island. At the top, you’ll spot the Temple de la Sibylle , a miniature copy of the Roman Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy.

There is also a grotto inspired by English landscape gardens, and an artificial waterfall. Above the lake is a 63-meter suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, famous for the Eiffel Tower.

Address: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 75019 Paris, France

9. Rue Cremieux

This Instagrammable Paris street has cobbled paving stones and many colorful houses. Situated in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, it is named after lawyer and politician Adolphe Crémieux.

Originally construction workers’ houses, the properties on rue Crémieux are now highly covetable. However, the residents do have to contend with this popular spot having an influx of visitors taking photographs!

Address: Rue Crémieux, 75012 Paris France

10. Paris Catacombs

20 meters underground in the 14th arrondissement, lies a macabre secret – the bones of millions of Parisians. Their remains were transferred there in the late 18th century due to public health concerns.

From 1809 onwards, the Paris Catacombs were open to the public by appointment. These days, you can purchase an individual or group ticket to visit.

There are 243 steps and a 1.5 km circuit so allow an hour and wear comfortable shoes.

Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris, France

11. Bercy Village

The Bercy District is a vast leisure area in the 12th arrondissement, with a public park and The Pavillons of Bercy, aka the Museum of Fairground Arts. Bercy Village has many good restaurants and boutiques housed in former wine cellars.

Visitors can enjoy a drink at Café Oz Rooftop or head to the UGC Ciné Cité multiplex cinema.

Address: 28 Rue François Truffaut, 75012 Paris, France

12. Rue Mouffetard

Experience Paris like a local in Rue Mouffetard in the 5th arrondissement. Originally a Roman road, this pedestrianized street in the 5th arrondissement has no airs and graces.

A true hidden gem, you’ll find many neighborhood cafes and specialty food stores in this area of Paris. Fromagerie Androet is a great cheese store, with a beautiful Rennaissance fresco above it.

Address: Rue Mouffetard , 75005 Paris, France

13. Canal Saint-Martin

A great place to go for a stroll, the Canal Saint-Martin is popular with local Parisians who come here at the weekends. Located in the 10th arrondissement, it has appeared in movies such as Amélie and Mission Impossible: Fallout.

You can also take a canal boat ride here or simply enjoy a drink in one of the many bistros and bars lining the route. One of these is the Hôtel du Nord , built in 1885 and immortalized in the film by Marcel Carné in 1938.

The starting point of this unique Paris gem is Place de la Bataille-de-Stalingrad in the 19th district of Paris. The finishing point is at Quai de la Rapée in the 12th district.

14. Musée Jacquemart-André

One of the most beautiful museums in Paris, this hidden gem in the 8th arrondissement was formerly the home of  Édouard André and Nélie Jacquemart. Avid collectors, they filled their home with treasures from their travels to Italy and the Orient.

The Sculpture Gallery has some fine examples of 15th and 16th century sculptures. There’s also a charming tea room with a terrace overlooking the courtyard.

Address: 158 Boulevard Haussmann, 75008 Paris, France

15. Square du Vert-Galant

Created in 1884 when two islands were joined to the Ile de la Cité, the Square du Vert-Galant is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day in Paris. You get great views of the river Seine, the Hôtel de la Monnaie and the Musée du Louvre here.

Next to the famous Pont Neuf bridge, it’s quite a small park so get there early to nab the best spot!

Address: 15 Place du Pont Neuf, 75001 Paris, France

16. Sainte-Chapelle

Less well known than Notre Dame Cathedral, La Sainte-Chapelle is an extraordinary royal chapel on the Île de la Cité. Work on this beautiful building started in 1238 and was completed in 1248.

Designed in the Gothic style to house King Louis IX’s relics of the passions collection, it has some of the best examples of 13th century stained glass windows in the world.

Address: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France

17. The Abbey Bookshop

Opened in 1989 by Canadian Brian Spence, The Abbey Bookshop is known for its cozy, inviting atmosphere. There are books stacked up to the ceiling and comforting reading nooks.

Hidden away in the Latin Quarter, it has over 40,000 English titles in stock. This is one of the few remaining independent English bookstores in Paris, along with Shakespeare and Company.

Address: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris, France

18. Grand Mosque of Paris

La Grande Mosquée de Paris was built in the 1920s in Moorish style. The mosque complex is open to visitors Saturday to Thursday from 9am to noon and 2pm to 6pm.

It is closed on Fridays for prayer services. The entrance fee is 3 euros and modest dress is advised.

The Islamic-style gardens with fountains are lovely to stroll through. If you have time, book for tea, lunch or dinner at the Grand Mosque Restaurant.

With its original 1920s tiled interior, this beautiful place is usually quite busy. The Hammam at the Grand Mosque is also a true hidden gem in Paris.

Address: 2bis Place du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris, France

19. Musée Rodin

The Rodin Museum is an unmissable Paris attraction. It’s housed in the Hôtel Biron in the upmarket 7th arrondissement.

The Musée Rodin contains the largest collection of works by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin, including iconic sculptures like The Thinker and The Kiss. Rodin donated his entire collection to the French state in 1908.

This unique Paris museum is set amidst beautiful formal French gardens. The gardens house many of Rodin’s famous outdoor sculptures like The Gates of Hell and the Monument to Balzac.

Address: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France

20. Rue de l’Université

This pretty street in the 7th arrondissement of Paris runs parallel to the Seine River. It offers a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower, especially from the southern end of the street near Allée Paul Deschanel.

Standing on Rue de l’Université near the intersection with Avenue de Suffren, you can see the Eiffel Tower perfectly framed at the eastern end of the street. Early morning and late afternoon are especially good times for photography from this vantage point, as the lighting illuminates the Eiffel Tower.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hidden Gems in Paris

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Paris, be sure to check out some of these secret places. They’re all great inclusions for your Paris itinerary. And after all that sightseeing, what about a bit of retail therapy in  the 5 hottest Paris shopping districts?

Our other France articles can help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful country. We’ve rounded up the most famous French landmarks that you shouldn’t miss.

And if you’re a fan of getting off the beaten path, you might want to check out our articles on hidden gems in Ibiza , London , Rome and Venice .

You might also enjoy:

• Fun Things to Do in Bourges, France
• Fun Things to Do on Ile de Ré
• Cool Things to Do in Languedoc, South France
• Luxurious French Riviera Places
• Most Luxurious Department Stores in the World
• One Day in Monaco
• Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, South of France

Check out some more international hidden gems below.

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Looking for more travel hacks and tips? From hidden gems to unique experiences, we’ve got you covered. Join us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest  and  Twitter .

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Suze and Paul Renner

Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

33 thoughts on “20 Best Hidden Gems in Paris, France”

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How cool. Paris is just full of surprises.

You’re right, for a smallish city, it certainly does have a lot of cool surprises

That’s really kind V, and I’m really glad that you managed to get into Paris after all – I’ve had a few scary passport moments myself!

I hope your niece gets to check out some of the places, we really had fun going off the beaten track!

I went to Paris when I was a teenager on a class trip and I have always wanted to go back on my own and just explore. I am now dying to get over to The Maris! Thanks for sharing these hidden gems — I am saving this for when I do get back to Paris!

The Marais is my favourite part of Paris, many of the other parts were standardised by Baron Haussman and they look lovely but the Marais is really quirky. Hope you get to go back soon!

Thanks Laura, my hubbie did a great job capturing the birds – they were moving around so much!

I’ll be in Paris in April, looking forward to seeing some of these favorite haunts again!

Have fun Noel, and if you’re ever in London, do let me know!

Well I thought I had explored Paris having been a few times, clearly not this post has reinvigorated the want to visit. Le Marais District looks beautiful Lucy x

Le Marais is so lovely, there’s even more new parks and museums – I really want to get to the Picasso Museum again

L’Arrosoir was great and the walk along the viaduct is great, so far away from any beeping horns! I loved my visit to Chicago by the way though was a good few years ago

Hope you get to go there soon Kay, it’s amazing how much you can cram in as it’s such a compact city

Place des Vosges is brilliant in Summertime, but it’s very atmospheric in Winter wandering around under the arches!

Hope you do get up there Lauren, must be quite quick on the TGV? Looking forward to reading about your trip

I’m taking note of this! Thanks for sharing 🙂

STYLE VANITY

Thanks Alyssa, hope you get to visit Paris at some point

The Palais Royal Gardens look gorgeous, great list!

Thanks Becky, the gardens are indeed lovely and there’s some really nice little cafes around the edges

Thanks Camille, hope you have a fantastic time in Paris!

A most excellent write-up of charming finds. I love the hidden passages; you’re right, it’s as though you’re in on a secret. Now I have an entire list for our next visit. Terrific post!

Thanks Betsy, that’s very kind. Hope you have an amazing trip to Paris

Thanks Emily, Pershing Hall is great and the cocktails are to die for

Glad you liked it and hope you have fun on your next trip Ruby

Thank you, I hope that you get to visit again soon!

Spring is such a great time to visit

I’m really glad you liked it Maria

These are indeed hidden gems, I would love to see these places next time – love the visuals Suze.

Thanks Noel, Paris is so photogenic!

I love the street with gold leaf carpet stretching. That’s so romantic.

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The Best Places to Visit in France

By Monica Mendal

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The best places to visit in France shouldn’t only be consigned to Paris and the French Riviera . Sure, there’s nothing quite like watching the Eiffel Tower twinkle at night or reveling in the glamour of summer on the Côte d’Azur, but there’s much more to France than the traditional tourist path. So, where to begin? From 10 major wine regions sweeping the country, to its variety of diverse coastlines stretching from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, to a vast mountain range that shares its borders with Switzerland and Italy, there’s plenty to explore in France year-round.

If you’re crunched for time, there are tons of day trips from Paris reachable by train if you want a change of scenery without venturing too far. Can’t get enough of French cuisine? Then how about visiting the gastronomic capital of France. (Spoiler alert: it isn’t Paris.) And if the French Riviera is out of your price range come high summer, consider exploring the country’s alternative coastlines—of which there are many.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in France.

Take a Day Trip From Paris

The most popular day trip from Paris is a visit to King Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles , a mere 45-minute train ride from the city center via the RER C metro line. The palatial estate is spread across over 2,000 acres, composed of the palace, gardens, park, Estate of Trianon, and stables. In 2021, French hotel company Airelles opened Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle in the heart of the palace grounds, with regal interiors inspired by Marie Antoinette’s Versailles estate, Petit Trianon. Here, guests can live out their own royal fantasies while benefiting from exclusive access and tailor-made experiences on the property. While Mont-Saint Michel follows Versailles as the third most visited monument in France (the first being the Eiffel Tower), there are plenty of other places to visit in Normandy as a day trip. A 50-minute train from Paris will land you in Giverny, the small village where Claude Monet famously lived and produced his illustrious water lily series. Travelers can visit his former home and gardens, which are open from late March to early November. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a seaside escape from Paris, you don’t have to travel all the way to the south of France. Normandy’s Côte Fleurie, often referred to as the Parisian Riviera, is a popular resort destination among Parisians—particularly Deauville and Trouville, which are a two-hour train ride from Paris.

Stay here: If you decide to turn your day trip into an overnight, Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle is the ultimate stay in Versailles, while Domaine de Primard , a bucolic stay situated in an 18th-century chateau, is located a mere 30 minutes from Claude Monet’s home.

Dine Your Way Through the Bouchons of Lyon

By Alexandra Macon

By Leah Faye Cooper

By Jenny Berg

Lyon is known as the undisputed gastronomic capital of France. Unsurprisingly, it was women who earned this title for the capital city of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, specifically the Mères Lyonnaises, or mothers of Lyon. Typically women of humble origins, they left their homes after the French Revolution in search of work, landing themselves in the homes of Lyon’s bourgeois families, where they used local, inexpensive ingredients to prepare simple and delicious meals; many believe it to be their impact that helped define and shape French cuisine as we know it today. When they were released from their jobs during the economic crisis of 1929, many of these women decided to open their own restaurants, known today as bouchons, referring to homey, casual eateries serving affordable and hearty fare. Today, Lyon is still littered with its historic bouchons —in fact, there are more restaurants per head than in any other in France. Try traditional Lyonnaise dishes like the quenelles at Cafe Comptoir Abel, chef Joseph Viola’s award-winning pâté en croûte at Daniel et Denise Créqui, the tête de veau at Café des Fédérations, and everything else at La Meunière, Brasserie Georges, and Chez Georges.

Stay here: Situated in a former convent, Villa Florentine is located in the heart of Old Lyon, a stone’s throw away from the best restaurants in the city. In the warmer months, take a dip in the rooftop pool featuring panoramic views of the city.

Ski the French Alps

France is blessed by such a surfeit of the world’s top ski resorts that it’s almost impossible to decide where to go. Les Trois Vallées is among the most popular ski regions in France, connecting multiple resorts through its interlinked valleys accessible using a single ski pass. Apart from skiing, the upper-crust love Courchevel for its abundance of five-star resorts (the most in France after Paris), magnum rosé-filled lobster lunches, and high-end luxury boutiques—some of which, like Moncler, are even located sur piste. If it’s refined subtly you’re going for in Les Trois Vallées, Meribel is the ideal option not only for its optimal location and famous slopes, like La Face, which was created for the 1992 Winter Olympics, but for its friendly-friendly atmosphere and bounty of ski-in ski-out chalets and hotels, including the beloved Hôtel Le Coucou , helmed by the same owners as Provence’s Crillon Le Brave and Paris’s buzzy new Le Grand Mazarin. Head to Chamonix at the base of Mont Blanc, often primed with fresh powder, to tick skiing the world’s longest ski run, the Vallée Blanche, off your bucket list. For a less advanced resort (or if it’s not the skiing alone that entices you), the nearby Megève will feed your appetite for a romantic sojourn in a charming alpine village with cobbled streets littered with high-end restaurants and chic stays. Val d’Isère is quickly becoming the French Alps’ latest hot spot with a flurry of buzzy openings, from Airelles Val d’Isère and the upcoming Experimental Chalet Val d’Isère signaling a new awakening.

Stay here: The Pierre Yovanovitch-designed stay Hôtel Le Coucou is a stylish ski-in ski-out hotel with excellent dining options, from a traditional Savoyard restaurant to its beloved Beefbar. Airelles Val d’Isère is another ski-in ski-out hotel, host to its own assortment of critically acclaimed dining establishments, from Loulou to Nobu Matsuhisa’s Matsuhisa. The historic Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or , recently acquired by the hotel group behind Mallorca’s Cap Rocat and Christian Louboutin’s hotel in Melides, Portugal, is a romantic alpine retreat with just 18 rooms and three adjoining chalets and home to La Chocolaterie, Megève village’s beloved social hub.

Explore the Central and Northern Wine Regions

You can find wine production in nearly every corner of France, but it’s always worth visiting the regions located within close proximity to Paris—from Champagne and Alsace in the north, to Loire Valley and Burgundy in central France. In Champagne, Reims and Épernay would be the best base to explore the five regions. If you’re inclined to visit one of the big names, Ruinart in Reims offers the most organized experiences, from cellar tours to tastings to custom-designed brunch, lunch, or dinner experiences on-site. For a more intimate experience near Épernay, head to the family estate of Billecart-Salmon , where visitors are made to feel like they’re a part of the family with tastings held in the estate’s dining room. Ahead of the Olympics, Uber will also be introducing a new travel product in the champagne region, which will be announced next month. Much like its wines, the Loire Valley provides the most variety. With the Loire Valley’s vast wine regions spanning the Muscadet region on the western coast, all the way to the Sancerre region in the central north, there’s more to enjoy here than just wine. From charming medieval villages, to its lush ethereal gardens—the grounds of the Château de Villandry are among the most famous—to fairytale castles, like the iconic Château de Chambord, Loire Valley maintains the perfect balance for a well-rounded holiday in wine country. It’s also worth exploring Burgundy, with a jaunt in its capital city Dijon, known for its mustard, or explore the German and Swiss-bordered Alsace region, with visits to both its capital city of Strasbourg and the charming old town of Colmar.

Stay here : In the Loire Valley, you can’t go wrong with a pastoral stay at the iconic Les Sources de Cheverny or if you prefer something less traditional, check out Château de la Haute Borde , known for its seasonal artist residencies. For an immersive stay in Champagne, the beautiful 12-room Château de Sacy sits in a charming village in the heart of the vineyards.

Sip Your Way Through Bordeaux

While the lesser-known wine regions in the south of France, such as the Rhône Valley and the Languedoc, are certainly not to be missed by wine aficionados, your introduction to French wine should undoubtedly begin with Bordeaux. Spend a night or two in the city of Bordeaux itself before heading to the countryside, and take a stroll through the vibrant Chartrons neighborhood or enjoy dinner at Au Bistrot. The type of experience you’ll have in Bordeaux’s wine country is characterized by which side of the Dordogne River you’re on. The right bank, which you can read about here , is distinguished by its shorter distances, hilly terrain, and famous medieval villages, while the left bank is formed by the Médoc, land that stretches all the way from the city of Bordeaux to the coast. The Médoc is famous for its palatial wine estates—many of which are open by appointment for tours and tastings. These wine castles, as they’re appropriately monikered, not only produce some of the finest wines in France, but are destinations in themselves—from some of the oldest and most historic, like Chateau d’Arsac and Château Livran , to the women-owned Château Larrivaux , which has been run by women of the same family since 1580. Among the many reasons to visit the Médoc wine region is due, in part, to its proximity to the coast. After a week of wine tastings, spend a few days on the sandy beaches of Soulac-sur-Mer, a timeless seaside village whose simplicity and belle époque nostalgia lend it a feeling of laid-back glamour.

Stay here: On Bordeaux’s left bank, stay at Maison d’Estournel , a refined country house set on the vineyards of its adjoining wine estate Cos d’Estournel . On the right bank, Logis de la Cadène puts you right at the center of the iconic Saint-Émilion wine village, and its Michelin-starred restaurant is among the most popular in the region.

Take a Scenic Drive Through Provence

Plan some tastings ahead of your (ideally, late spring or early summer) visit to Provence at Château La Mascaronne or Château Gassier —after all, Provence is the land of rosé. When your rosé-tinted glasses have worn off, however, it’s time to hit the road, and there’s no better way to discover Provence’s surfeit of charming hilltop villages set against the backdrop of its sweeping fields of lavender, vines, and sunflower fields, than from a vintage car with the top down. Rent a car with Provence Classics , beginning your road trip in the Luberon, where you can pick up some local market produce and souvenirs from the hilltop village of Gordes, then drive past the lavender fields at Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque on your way to stroll through the red cliffside village of Roussillon. From there, begin your journey to Avignon, stopping through Provence’s antique capital, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, for some antique shopping at notable shops, like 50 Cinquante and Bernard Durand . Arriving at Avignon, visit the Palais des Papes and the Jardin des Domes or meander through the city’s labyrinth of cafés and shops, before following the Van Gogh route from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to Arles. For a truly enchanting conclusion to your road trip, head 20 minutes south of Arles for a journey into the wilds: the Camargue, western Europe’s largest delta, featuring a wild landscape of lagoons, reeds, and salt marshes—a place where wild horses roam free and a colony of pink flamingos comes to nest in the warmer months. No, it’s not the rosé-tinted glasses you’re wearing—this place is real .

Stay here: The elegant La Bastide de Gordes will place you right in the center of the iconic hilltop village. You can alternatively opt for a stay at the charming La Bastide de Mourre nearby or in its sister property Domaine de Chalamon in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. For an ultra-luxurious and romantic retreat, book a room at Crillon le Brave , located a short distance from the best antique shops in the region. In June, the much-anticipated Les Bains Gardians will open in the heart of Camargue National Park.

Hike the Calanques

After exploring the countryside of Provence, it’s time to hit the seaside. With its influx of trending hotel and restaurant openings, it’s no secret that the weird and wild Marseille has become a hotbed for the creative class in recent years. But before stylish crowds descended on the vibrant port city, its wild limestone cliffside extending between Marseille and Cassis, known as the Calanques, had always been its natural draw. The Calanques National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with many of its trails ending at secret coves and white sand beaches that are only reachable by foot or sea, like Calanque of Port-Miou, Calanque of Port-Pin, and Calanque of En-Vau. If you prefer to explore the calanques by sea, book a public or private charter aboard Le Don du Vent for a day of sailing and swimming.

Stay here: Optimally situated on a rocky shore in the fishing village of Les Goudes, Tuba Club is the perfect place to stay given it’s located at the gateway to the Calanques National Park. Book a room at the 5-star Hôtel Les Roches Blanches in the neighboring Cassis if you’re looking for a more elegant stay outside of the frenetic city center of Marseille.

Oyster Tasting in the Bay of Arcachon

Head southwest for a week of oyster tastings on the Bay of Arcachon. Base yourself in the chic seaside village of Cap Ferret, the southern tip of the Lege-Cap-Ferret peninsula, known as the oyster capital of France. A scenic seaside town characterized by its quaint fisherman villages and oyster farms, Cap Ferret has long been a chic holiday hamlet and a best-kept secret among the French for its abundance of beautiful beaches and al fresco seafood restaurants. Flanked by the Atlantic beaches primed for surf and the quieter beaches on the bay, lined with oyster shacks and framed by the famed Dune Du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, Cap Ferret is a unique summer destination for travelers seeking a more laid back alternative to the French Riviera. Don’t forget to grab a bike and explore the many picturesque fishing villages located deeper in the peninsula, from Le Canon to l’Herbe, or book a boat day with Des Hommes et Des Mers to explore it all by sea.

Stay here: Last summer the oldest hotel on the peninsula dating back to the 1970s, Hôtel des Dunes re-opened as a cool surf lodge of sorts, with each of its 13 rooms designed in the spirit of Cap Ferret’s oyster shacks, and located just across the street from Cap Ferret’s best surf beach. If you prefer to stay in Arcachon, the Philippe Starck-designed La Co(o)rniche is a five-star stay in the upmarket Pyla-Sur-Mer neighborhood, boasting panoramic views of the Dune du Pilat from its lively restaurant bar.

Surf the French Basque

Begin your road trip in the French Basque Country’s gateway city, Bayonne, where you can scoop up some of the famous Bayonne cured ham and chocolate before making your way to the coast. It’s no secret to surf enthusiasts everywhere that France’s southwest is world-renowned for its epic surf breaks—so much so that it’s been nicknamed the “French California.” Many of the best surf beaches can be found in the French Basque’s beloved seaside towns, like Biarritz , which has also experienced an advent of new hotels and restaurants as of late, making it an ideal base for your Basque holiday. In Biarritz, you’ll find beginner beaches, like Côte des Basques or La Grande Plage, and Le Miramar for more advanced surfers. Another charming and lesser-known town nearby is Guethary, a tiny village with a surplus of great local restaurants and sceney sunset bars for post-surf fun. Among the best surf beaches in Guethary include the reef break of Parlementia, which shares its border with Bidart, another beloved surf town, and the more isolated beach of Alcyons. Intermediate surfers can also head to the neighboring town of Saint Jean de Luz to ride out one of the French Basque’s rare point breaks at Lafitenia beach.

Stay here: Regina Experimental Biarritz opened just last summer and is optimally located across the street from La Grande Plage.

Scenic Swims in Corsica

With its close proximity to Italy, located just 10 nautical miles from beautiful Sardinia, international travelers often overlook Corsica altogether when considering their options for a summer holiday in France. Their oversight leaves the island spared from crowds—save for the French families who return each summer to bask in their unspoiled paradise on the Med. From natural pools to secret coves to white sand beaches, Corsica is known for its pristine turquoise coastline. Tourists tend to flock to the southern part of the island, famous for its white sand beaches, like Palombaggia (the first tobacco-free beach on Corsica), Campomoro, Cupabia, and Roccapina, as well as its scenic bays, such as Cala di Conca and Fazzio. As southern Corsica is more built up with tourist stays, the northern beaches remain slightly more wild and untouched; among the best beaches in northern Corsica include Ostriconi, Lotu, Saleccia, and Bodri. But Corsica’s pristine swimming spots aren’t consigned to the island’s dazzling coastline—many of the island’s best swims can be found inland, in the natural pools concealed among the island’s many hiking trails and cultural sites, from les Piscines naturelles de Cavu to the Vallée du Fango and Ponte Vecchiu, and those fed by waterfalls like Polischellu and Aïtone.

Stay here: Nestled on the Cap Corse peninsula in the northeast corner of the island, Hôtel Misincu is a chic eco-luxury retreat on a 54-acre estate with a restaurant, spa, and pool. In the south, stay at the beloved family-run U Capu Biancu , a waterfront property overlooking the bay of Sant’ Amanza.

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13 of the best places to visit in France

Nov 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Have you been to France if you haven't got a shot in the lavender fields of Provence? © iStock / Getty Images

France  consistently tops the list as the world’s most visited destination – and it doesn’t take much imagination to see why.

Its winning formula of captivating cities, awe-inspiring landscapes – including the  Alps and the  Pyrenees – an enviable coastline and some of the world’s best food and wine is hard to resist. Affordable public transportation and a sprawling network of motorways mean you can cover a lot of ground if you want to visit more than one region. But it’s just as tempting to stick to one place and enjoy the country's seductive lifestyle.

Wondering where to go in France? Have a look at these top destinations for some inspiration.

1. Paris has great urban vibes

Much as you’d like to tick the main sights of  Paris off your list – world-class art at the  Louvre and  Musée d’Orsay , the  Eiffel Tower ,  Sacré-Coeur – make time for some of its lesser-known attractions. Wander the atmospheric streets of the  Marais – popping into the free  Musée Carnavalet as well as  Musée Picasso – before checking out the vintage shops of the 10th arrondissement . Make your way over to buzzing Belleville and take in fabulous views of Paris from Parc de Belleville. For full-on greenery in the city, follow the footpaths around the elegant 19th-century  Parc des Buttes-Chaumont .

Local tip : For authentic local dining experiences, avoid restaurants that tout a menu touristique, or display a sample meal of plastic food on the pavement outside.

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in France

2. the loire valley's castles are best explored by bike.

At some point, you’ll want to be on two wheels as you explore the gently rolling landscapes of the  Loire Valley – especially as cycling is made so much easier thanks to the extensive Vélo Verte network of bike routes. Combine visiting vineyards with glimpses into lavish Renaissance life in the 42 sumptuous chateaux, particularly the fantastically elaborate  Chateau de Chenonceau and the more intimate and romantic  Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau on its own island on the Indre tributary.

Local tip:  Don't leave your bicycle locked up outside on the street overnight if you want to see it (or at least most of its parts) again. Some hotels offer enclosed bicycle parking. 

3. Normandy’s coast is the place to learn about WWII history  

Normandy ’s long coastline is packed with historical landmarks, the D-Day beaches being the most striking. It’s impossible not to be moved by the many poignant memorials, including the  American cemetery at Omaha Beach and the  Juno Beach Centre at Courseulles-sur-Mer. Head further east, and you end up in a 19th-century time capsule in the alluring resorts of Cabourg, Deauville, Trouville and  Honfleur .

4. Strasbourg and Alsace’s wine routes are full of fairy-tale charm

Strasbourg is half-timbered heaven, with an outrageously picturesque old town set on its own island on the  River Ill . Wander round its imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame before relaxing on one of the cafe terraces in little Place du Marché Gayot just behind. The city is an excellent starting point for a tour of the  Alsace Wine Route, the oldest in France. Beer drinkers aren’t left out: Alsace is the only region in France that makes wine and beer.

5. The Luberon in Provence has many lovely hilltop villages

Terracotta rooftops and honey-colored stone cottages tumble down pine-clad hills, while vineyards crisscross the valleys with olive groves and lavender fields. That’s when you know you’re in Provence, specifically the wonderfully mellow  Luberon . Wander from village to hilltop village and lose yourself in the medieval lanes of some of the most gorgeous places in France. Put Bonnieux, Gordes, Ménerbes, Roussillon and Saignon on your list just for starters.

Local tip : Buy a baguette from the boulangerie (bakery) and fill it with Camembert, pâté or charcuterie (cold meats). Finish sweet with macarons, buttery kouign amann (Breton butter cake) or cherries in summer. 

6. Mont-St-Michel is a top destination for medieval history buffs

The 10th-century Benedictine abbey at  Mont-St-Michel casts its spell even before you arrive. The walk to this tidal island takes at least 20 minutes, during which you have this magnificent abbey, monastery and snail-like spiral of village houses in your sights. You certainly won’t tire of that view. Once you’ve explored the gothic interiors, take your pick from one of the panoramic restaurants circling the island.

7. Dune du Pilat is France's most scenic place to camp

Soaring more than 100m (328ft) above sea level, the otherworldly Dune du Pilat is Europe’s tallest sand dune. Sheltered by the Arguin sandbank, its waters are much gentler than further up the Atlantic coast on the western side of Cap Ferret. It’s ringed with campsites, giving you not only one of the loveliest views but also utterly mesmerizing sunsets. When you’re not running up the mountain of sand, you’ll be transfixed by the antics of the paragliders who rarely leave this place.

Local tip : There is a large car park about 400 meters (437 yards) from the dune, which charges a small fee for parking. However, you cannot park here overnight without being fined €50. 

8. Lyon is a top food destination

Even Parisians have to admit that  Lyon is gastronomic royalty in France. Bring a big appetite to do justice to eating in Lyon’s trademark bouchons , intimate little bistros that specialize in hearty meat-heavy lyonnaise cuisine. Start your bouchon tour in the UNESCO-listed Renaissance lanes of Vieux Lyon, where you can also spot the old secret passageways known as traboules .

9. Bordeaux is the best place to go for wine lovers

Mixing easy elegance with liveliness, France’s wine capital hums with the sounds of people enjoying themselves in  Bordeaux ’s cafe-filled 18th-century lanes of Saint-Pierre and Place du Parlement. Take the pleasant, pedestrianized path along the River Garonne to  La Cité du Vin , whose audacious design holds a thoroughly enjoyable museum celebrating wine from Bordeaux and beyond.

Local tip : Dress up when dining out, even at mid-range restaurants, clubs and bars. Leave the jeans and sneakers in your suitcase (unless you're at the local village bar where a more casual style is fine).

10. Annecy has the best Alpine beauty

On the doorstep of the French Alps,  Annecy is another one of those sigh-inducing gorgeous cities that France does so well. Its medieval heart squeezes into gaps between the Thiou River and Canal, with tall pastel-colored townhouses towering over the quayside cafes. You can’t miss the  Vieille Ville ’s most distinctive landmark,  Palais de l’Île , a medieval castle and former prison that’s now a museum. Your wanderings will inevitably take you to the glorious shores of Lake Annecy, one of France’s most beautiful.

11. Biarritz and Basque Country is packed with boho chic

Royalty has been flocking to  Biarritz for more than two centuries since Napoleon III’s mother, Queen Hortense, fell in love with this fishing village on the Atlantic coast. Then the surfers joined in from the 1950s onward, bringing some laid-back cool to go with Biarritz’s superb beaches. Once you’ve had a swim in the  Grande Plage and  Plage de la Côte des Basques , check out the  Basque Country coastal towns of  Bayonne and  St-Jean-de-Luz before heading into the Pyrenees.

12. Nice is a vibrant taste of life on the Mediterranean

The sun-drenched capital of the Côte d’Azur is everything you want in a Mediterranean city, and then some. Explore the labyrinthine lanes of  Vieux Nice , with an obligatory trawl through the morning food market at  Cours Saleya  before taking in the views from the top of  Colline du Chateau . Chill out on one of  Nice ’s many beaches before getting a culture fix at the  Chagall and  Matisse museums. Hop on one of the most scenic train lines in Europe and pop into the attractive coastal villages of  Villefranche-sur-Mer and  Èze .

Planning tip: If you're heading to the Côte d’Azur in May, book time to get over to star-studded Cannes for Europe's biggest cinema extravaganza. Every evening from 9:30pm, the Cinéma de la Plage provides free open-air screenings on the beachfront.

13. Auvergne has a captivating natural landscape

The lush volcanic landscape of the  Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne is one of the most dramatic in France. Among its four volcanic massifs, the green-covered lava domes, cinder cones and craters of the Chaîne des Puys – more than 80 volcanoes – are a dream to explore on foot, on two wheels or from an exhilarating paraglide flight.

Local tip : If you're traveling with children, head to the surprisingly educative Vulcania theme park and learn about Auvergne's long-extinct volcanoes. 

This article was first published June 2012 and updated November 2023

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Top 10 Hidden Gems to Visit in France Other Than Paris

Bonjour! Not sure where to go for your next vacation? How about taking a trip to France? Apart from the tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre in Paris, why not take a step further to explore places that are less raved about, yet equally, if not more, beautiful? 

Here are 10 hidden gems to visit in France that are just waiting to be discovered!

1. Visit Provence for lavender fields and fresh truffles

Image credit: Mike Slone

It is no wonder that many flock to Provence in order to catch a glimpse of the gorgeous lavender fields. The fragrant, purple flowers grace the fields every July to August during the flowering season. Plus, it’s the perfect backdrop for tons of photo opportunities! However, did you know that besides lavender blooms, Provence is also famed for saffron, as well as freshly picked truffles! 

Image credit: Edsel Little

Yes, although real-life truffles look like black rocks, they certainly taste and smell heavenly! During truffle season, which typically happens around mid-November, you can purchase truffles and truffle oils, participate in the truffle parade or even go on a truffle hunt with professionals! Other interesting harvest seasons around the year-end include blackcurrant and chestnuts as well — why not check them out for a whole new gourmet experience? 

2. Traipse through the streets of Colmar La Petite Venise

Image credit: Iso Brown FR

Did you know that you can visit Venice while in France? This picturesque little town in Colmar is called La Petite Venise (Little Venice) and it is definitely a sight for tired eyes! Located in the Alsace region, Colmar is situated in the north-east of France. Here in La Petite Venise, colourful houses and cute little shrubbery line the waterway, making it a wonderful backdrop for photos.

You can even take a motorized rowboat ride down the waterway, just like the iconic gondola boat rides they have in Venice! However, we suggest that you take your time to stroll through the charming neighbourhood instead. Visit the local market and have yourself a piping hot pretzel — the perfect accompaniment while you take in all the sights and sounds of this quaint little town. 

3. Stargaze from your very own bubble hotel in Allauch

Image credit: Attrap Reves Facebook

Nestled deep in the pine forests of Allauch, lie quirky clear plastic orbs, which upon closer examination, are actually bubble hotels! An example of glamping, aka glamorous camping, these unassuming little orbs are actually private rooms fitted with luxurious amenities such as a plush queen sized bed and an open-air jacuzzi! For a magical night, enjoy a glass of bubbly as you watch the stars from the comfort of your bubble room — such an enchanting and once-in-a-lifetime experience indeed!

Located in other areas such as La Bouilladisse, Puget-Ville and Montagnac-Montpezat, there are different types of bubble hotels catered to suit different environments and occasions. Set within pastoral settings that let you feel at one with nature, yet comfortable and luxurious at the same time? These bubble hotels really take camping to a whole new level!

4. Stroll through the little town which inspired the opening scene of Beauty and the Beast

Image credit: Lynn Rainard

Surely you would have watched Beauty and the Beast by now, or at least know how this beloved fairy tale goes. If you loved the fairytale, here’s another fantastic reason to visit France — step into the “little town” that inspired the opening scene of Beauty and the Beast! 

Image credit: Phillip Capper

Welcome to Conques! It is just the most adorable little village ever, complete with winding cobblestone pathways and cute little cottages with shutters and walls lined with creepers. You will not be disappointed as you amble through these charming streets. Why not go ahead and film your own rendition of Belle singing as she strolls into town? The picturesque houses and rustic charm definitely makes for the perfect dreamy backdrop for photos, and lasting memories that can be your very own tale as old as time! 

5. Swim in the Calanques of Marseille

Calanques are narrow, steep-walled inlets developed in limestone or dolomite and are often found along the Mediterranean coast. They are usually formed via erosion or from the collapse of a cave that had subsequently became partially submerged by the rise in sea level. Interesting, huh? The Calanques of Marseille and Cassis promise you spectacular panoramas of the majestic white limestone cliffs and alluring azure blues as far as the eye can see.

Image credit: Akunamatata

One can choose to hike around the cliffs or take a boat ride through the inlet. You could also go for a little dip in the sea, or even snorkel around the sheltered coves that guarantee views of different marine life in the crystal clear waters! Just don’t forget to bring your swimsuits and a towel!   

6. Stand in awe of the magnificent Palace of Versailles

Embellished with accents of gold around numerous classical paintings that adorn the ceilings, the magnificent Palace of Versailles is definitely a place you do not want to miss! Once a royal palace that was extended by Louis XIV, the palace today is used as a museum, where guests can roam through gigantic corridors and long hallways. 

From towering marble columns, to elaborate chandeliers and the intricately painted ceilings of the great halls, one could spend the whole day marvelling at French architecture. Prepare to be stunned when you wander through the splendid Hall of Mirrors or take a peek into the queen’s bedroom, which glistens in gold.

Image credit: MJM Photography

Another grand feature of Versailles is the vast garden grounds which is situated to the west of the palace. The carefully manicured gardens are as impressive as the palace itself. Spend your afternoon getting lost in the mazes or if you’re bored of walking around, you could even rent a boat and row around the lake at the end of the palace grounds! 

7. Frolic in the sea and sand at the beaches in Cannes

Image credit: GabboT

Cannes is famous for the Cannes Film Festival, but did you know that it also has some of the most ravishing beaches in the world? Imagine sinking your feet into fine, soft mounds of sand. As you slowly make your way to the shore, you are greeted with cool waves that lap gently at your feet — how amazing does that sound?

The young and old alike will undoubtedly have a ball of a time frolicking around in the sea and building an endless fort of sandcastles. If you just want to sit back and unwind, why not enjoy a picnic lunch by the sea with your loved ones or lie back and treat yourself to a nice tan! Just make sure to slap on that sunscreen before you go. 

There’s just so much more to explore in France than we ever imagined! But the most irresistible part is….

8. Experience the sublime at Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is truly the embodiment of sublime. These splendid mountains are located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in the southeast of France, and was the site of the first Winter Olympics way back in 1924! You can experience the best of this snowy winter wonderland with a myriad of winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, winter paragliding and even dog sledging! How exhilarating does that sound?

For those not into winter sports, why not savour the awesome views via the highest cable car in Europe? The cable cars take you 3,842 metres above sea level, into a whole new world at the peak of the Alps! Have some lunch at the cafe or a steaming mug of coffee to warm you up as you sit back and admire the pristine snowy scenery. 

9. Stomp the grounds of La Cite Medievale de Carcasonne

Image credit: Falstaf

History buffs will surely appreciate a visit to Carcasonne, a fortified French town in Aude, within the region of Occitanie. Carcasonne was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997. You could hire an audio guide to help you navigate through the castle and provide you with information about its history or simply stomp through the grand, castle walls at your own pace. 

Scale the outer ramparts to the inner chambers and feel as if you’ve travelled through time, right back to the medieval era! One would surely fall in love with medieval architecture as you also discover the many hidden vantage points, that will provide you with stunning panoramas for perfect photo opportunities!

Image credit: Jean-Baptiste Bellet

The coolest part? Every summer, the Festival de Carcassonne is held right here at this UNESCO Heritage Site! It’s definitely an unparalleled festival experience for sure. Throughout the month of July, 120 shows are held in this ancient theatre, ranging from opera to theatre, dance, classical music, and concerts by national and international artists. Time your visit wisely so you can get a taste of this unique festival ground! 

10. Go on a canyoning adventure in Nice

Image credit: Roberto Lumbreras

Got the wild spirit of adventure in you? Then you would, without a doubt, relish the opportunity to go canyoning in one of the most gorgeous places ever. Most people don’t associate water activities with France, but who knew that you could actually go canyoning amongst natural landforms such as limestone gorges, waterfalls and rock pools right here in Nice? 

Image credit: Riviera Bar Crawl

From abseiling to swimming, and even cliff jumping, there’s no better way to explore the beauty of France’s natural wonders than canyoning. So if you’re looking for your next outdoor adrenaline fix, this is definitely the activity you should sign up for. Take that thrilling plunge into the crystal clear waters today and you’ll never look back! 

Ready to go forth and have a grand adventure in France? Take the first step to planning that dream vacation, by booking your trip to France with your UOB CARD today! Au revoir, for now!

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Curated guide to beautiful and authentic places to stay in France

Where to stay in france.

France, a country full of charm and elegance, is home to a wide range of charming accommodations to suit the most varied tastes. From majestic chateaux to cozy small country hotels, the choice is as wide as the country itself.

You can find châteaux converted into luxury hotels that intertwine France's rich history with the present in these magnificent buildings, offering guests a unique experience. The majesty of their halls, the opulence of their rooms and the medieval atmosphere transport you back in time, immersing you in a fairy tale come true.

Another type of charming accommodation in France are the "maisons d'hôtes" and are characterized by a more intimate and personalized experience than conventional boutique hotels. The term "maison d'hôtes" translates as "guest house" and they are often private homes where the owners open their doors. These small accommodations generally have 5 rooms and as a consequence allow for a more personalized attention and a more familiar atmosphere. They are especially popular in rural areas and tourist regions of France, such as Provence, Burgundy or the Bordeaux wine region.

When it comes to small luxury hotels, it is important not to forget the French "savoir-faire" that manifests itself in the excellence of service and attention to detail that the best French hotels provide to their guests. Luxury hotels in France are distinguished by their refinement and sophistication, offering a unique and memorable experience.

Another way to experience France is by renting a self-catering apartment or villa in the countryside or in the city. Travelers can immerse themselves in the authenticity of French life, enjoying the privacy and comfort of a home away from home. It is an opportunity to live like a local, explore the charms of this country and create unforgettable memories in a unique and welcoming environment.

We have divided our short travel guide to the most beautiful destinations in France into sections:

• Where to stay and what to visit in Île de France and Paris
• Where to stay and what to visit in the South and South West of France
• Where to stay and what to visit in the West of France and the Loire valley
• Where to stay and what to visit in the East and South East of France

Need advice?

• French Riviera & Provence
• Île de France
• Languedoc-Roussillon
• Loire Valley - Pays de la Loire
• Midi-Pyrenees
• Nord Pas de Calais
• Poitou-Charentes
• Rhône-Alpes

Regions in France

Our favourite towns, villages and best places to stay in île de france and paris.

L'Île de France is the true heart of France, a cultural and political center that never ceases to amaze. Here, history comes to life through countless monuments and vibrant cultural events. As the epicenter of political and economic influence, this region also boasts an enviable cultural and historical legacy. At its core lies the fascinating city of Paris, a must-visit for any traveler seeking culture, history, art, and, why not, romance. Paris, the capital of France, captivates with its cafes, flower shops, bookstores, markets, and the brisk hustle of its inhabitants who traverse its streets as if cutting through the air. For more detailed information, visit our Paris guide.

To provide you with a stay befitting such a prestigious city, we have selected the best and most authentic boutique hotels in Paris for you. You will also find hotels with views of the Eiffel Tower, design hotels with very modern trends, and elegant luxury hotels in Paris , where "très chic" reigns. If you are looking for apartments, feel free to contact us, as we have several accommodations that are not yet published on our website. You can ask for advice or visit our updated selection of boutique hotels in Paris.

Île-de-France attracts art enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking relaxation. Do not miss the Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles), which was the last royal residence of Louis XIV and a symbol of monarchical absolutism. The Palace of Versailles is known for its sumptuous gardens and its architecture that impresses with attention to the smallest detail. The city of Versailles is located about 20 kilometers southwest of Paris and is accessible from the French capital by train, bus, or car.

Our favourite towns, villages and best places to stay in the South and South West of France

Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur: the Mediterranean at its best

The region is divided into Provence , with its fields of aromatic lavender, the Alps with their imposing peaks, Camargue   with its unique biodiversity, and the French Riviera with its charming ports and seafront restaurants. This diversity makes the region one of the most visited in France.

In this extensive region, you'll find well-known cities such as Marseille ,   Nice , Aix-en-Provence , Avignon , and Arles . Cultural centres brimming with historic sites, from grand churches and museums to castles and bustling squares, invite visitors to immerse themselves in an elegant lifestyle, with luxurious boutique hotels offering refined gastronomic experiences.

The French Riviera, also known as the "Côte d'Azur," is a coastline bathed by the Mediterranean Sea, supposedly starting in the city of Hyères, southeast of Marseille, and extending to Menton, near the Italian border. This stretch includes iconic places like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, enticing with golden sandy beaches and hidden coves. Finding charming accommodations directly on the beach on the French Riviera is challenging, as these are mostly super  luxury hotels on the Côte d’Azur. But there are several small boutique hotels and holiday homes on the French Riviera a few kilometres from the coast that are more affordable. It's an expensive area, but where price and quality go hand in hand.

Provence is where you relax, strolling through its extensive fields of olive groves, vineyards, and lavender, dotted with villages where good food is always accompanied by cheese, baguette, and good regional wine. The area is tranquil and very romantic, with small B&Bs in Provence or guesthouses in the countryside or small villages. There are also holiday homes and villas in Provence for rent with a decoration that evokes the French countryside, with light colours and traditional rustic furniture in an elegantly classic style.

The Camargue Regional Natural Park is located near the city of Arles and extends along the mouth of the Rhône River into the Mediterranean Sea. Although geographically associated with Provence, the Camargue has natural and cultural features that distinguish it as a unique region with an astonishing natural environment: salt marshes, dunes, lagoons, and meadows with biodiversity that includes the iconic white horses of the Camargue, bulls, and flamingos. The region is popular for bird watching and enjoying nature. You can see our list of charming accommodations in Camargue.

In contrast, the Alpes de Haute-Provence and Alpes-Maritimes offer magnificent mountain landscapes, with majestic peaks, high-altitude lakes, green valleys, and famous ski resorts. The Verdon Regional Natural Park, with its dazzling canyons, is a beautiful place with trails that offer panoramic views of the gorges and the Sainte-Croix reservoir. See our selection of charming accommodations in the Alps.

Occitanie – Languedoc - Roussillon and Midi Pyrenees: the sunny side of life

Nestled against the backdrop of the imposing Pyrenees and caressed by the waters of the Mediterranean, Occitanie, consisting of the former regions of Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrénées is a destination with an enormous diversity of landscapes and historic jewels. Its inhabitants like to take the time to enjoy life and are proud to share the products of the excellent regional gastronomy, which includes the famous foie gras.

Languedoc-Roussillon, in the heart of the South of France, bur with beauty. Enclosed with the natural obstacles of the Pyrenees, the Rhône, and the Cévennes, it emerges as an amphitheater with the sea as its stage, bathed in a generous sunlit glow. It shelters the awe-inspiring Gorges du Tarn in the Lozère department, where dramatic limestone cliffs, crystalline rivers, and verdant forests converge. The Gard department holds the Camargue, an enchanting scenery of marshes, lagoons, dunes, and beaches, celebrated for its protected flora and fauna. Cap d’Agde, meanwhile, lures with its powdery beaches, secluded coves, and a medley of water escapades. Moreover, Languedoc-Roussillon wears the crown as France's largest wine-producing region, inviting connoisseurs to embark on a sensory journey through its varied local vintages. No better place to discover this region than one of our charming country hotels and B&B in Languedoc-Roussillon or a boutique hotel in historic cities such as Montpellier, Carcassonne or Arles.

Away from the ocean, the Midi-Pyrénées, with its intricate blend of landscapes, traditions, and terroirs, finds its cradle between the Massif Central and the Pyrenean mountains. Characterized by expansive natural realms and rivers that meander in intriguing patterns, this region passionately embraces ecotourism. The enchanting Canal du Midi stands as a monumental ode to local heritage, while the Pyrenees National Park, teeming with unparalleled biodiversity, is a sanctuary for nature devotees. The tranquil valleys of the Garonne and Lot cast a serene spell with their rolling hills, vine-clad expanses, fields, and rivers. Historical gems like Toulouse and Albi lie embedded here. The Pyrenean mountains invite with natural parks, lush valleys, glacial lakes, and cascading waterfalls, presenting a playground for mountaineering enthusiasts, beckoning with opportunities for hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and paragliding. Beautiful and authentic guest houses (maisons d’hôtes), boutique hotels and holiday homes await you to discover the regions natural wonders.

New Aquitaine – Aquitaine, Poitou-Charentes et le Limousin: between vines and the ocean

With its resplendent Atlantic coast, the verdant expanse of the Landes forest, the imposing Pyrenees, and the tranquil Dordogne valley, Aquitaine emerges as a captivating blend of natural wonders and coastal allure. The region is celebrated for its Bordeaux vineyards that paint the hillsides. Travelers are equally enchanted by the sprawling Atlantic beaches, such as the dune-kissed shores of Arcachon Basin, as they are by the rich culture of the Basque Country and its deep-rooted traditions.

History and heritage interweave in Aquitaine, with cities like Bordeaux, Biarritz, Bayonne, Pau, and Sarlat narrating tales of times gone by, and globally renowned prehistoric sites like the Lascaux caves adding mystique. Gastronomy thrives here, where land meets sea to conjure up dishes both delectable and authentic. Bordeaux, a vinous sanctuary, beckons enthusiasts to wander amidst its elegant architectural marvels and centuries-old vineyards that have transformed winemaking into an art.

The Atlantic coast is undeniably one of Aquitaine's crown jewels, boasting pristine sandy beaches, towering dunes, and iconic surf spots. The hinterlands, with the majestic Pyrenees and the bucolic valleys of Dordogne and Garonne, showcase picturesque villages and breathtaking landscapes. Stay in our handpicked boutique hotels and guesthouses in Bordeaux , Biarritz or Bayonne.

In the north, Poitou-Charentes unfurls a diverse landscape, from the expansive salt marshes of the Atlantic coast to the lush hills of Haut-Poitou. The salt marshes of Île de Ré and Île d’Oléron, easily accessible and boasting stunning beaches, quaint villages, and bustling fishing ports, stand testament to nature's craft. Nestled in the verdant hills of Haut-Poitou are renowned vineyards, medieval castles, and scenic hamlets, promising an ever-changing yet consistently mesmerizing landscape.

Meanwhile, Limousin, an often-overlooked area nestled in the heart of France between the Loire Valley and the Massif Central mountains, is a repository of cultural heritage, history, and untouched beauty. It is also famous for its Limousin cattle.

As you journey through, opt for a stay in one of our handpicked country hotels, B&B and boutique hotels in Aquitaine to experience the epitome of regional luxury.

With its resplendent Atlantic coast, the vast expanse of the Landes forest, the imposing Pyrenees, and the tranquil Dordogne valley, Aquitaine emerges as a region where eating, drinking, and living well are synonymous. The region is famous for its characteristic Bordeaux wine, and its rather traditional people take pride in identifying as "Bordelais" rather than French. There are also beautiful beaches bathed by the Atlantic waters, such as Arcachon, Île de Ré, or the well-known Biarritz.

Périgord is now part of New Aquitaine and is known for its rich culinary tradition, including specialties like foie gras, truffles, mushrooms, and duck-based dishes. Additionally, the region boasts an abundance of castles, prehistoric caves, and charming villages that attract visitors interested in history and culture.

Corsica: the authentic island

This realm was the birthplace of Napoleon, where mountains caress the sky. Corsica has everything to be a paradise, but above all, it is an island of profound contrasts, where millennia-old traditions intertwine with raw and untamed nature. Its tumultuous history has indelibly shaped the Corsican spirit. Mountainous and rugged, with narrow roads and steep declines, dotted with perched villages and views that will take your breath away at every turn. This landscape and the island's history define the Corsican character: they are straightforward, somewhat rugged, and sparing with words with those who visit the island; skill is needed to earn a smile, but if you manage to enter their hearts, the scene changes, and they become people of extreme kindness. We invite you to discover the island by staying in the best areas, from small mountain hotels to luxurious 5-star accommodations on the coast in Corsica.

As you navigate this captivating island, consider a stay in a country side B&B or one of our selected boutique hotels and luxury hotels in Corsica .

Our favourite towns, villages and best places to stay in the West of France and the Loire valley

Brittany – land of myths and legends

In Brittany, a land steeped in traditions and character, maritime tales entwine with Celtic legends. The sea's rhythm pulses deeply through the region's veins, yet its countryside is an equally captivating symphony. The Breton landscape proudly showcases its cornerstone, granite, an emblematic stone that graces its buildings, churches, and quaint villages.

Imagine a land where sandy beaches meet sheer cliffs, where picture-postcard villages lie in the shadows of historic monuments, and where festivals and traditional feasts animate the streets. Brittany offers a kaleidoscope of experiences tailored to every whim. The Breton coasts, a mosaic of inlets, cliffs, golden beaches, and beguiling isles like the Bréhat islands or the Glénan archipelago, invite exploration. Venture inland, and you’re greeted by sprawling forests, rolling green hills, and serene, majestic lakes.

Sprinkled across this marvelous region you will find some of the most enchanting  country hotels, romantic guest houses and luxury hotels in Brittany.

Normandy – cliffs, beaches and local delicacies

Normandy, in the northwest of France, is a tapestry woven with history, culture, and arresting landscapes. Synonymous with the pivotal D-Day beaches, which have left an indelible mark on World War II history, Normandy is also a beacon of medieval architecture, Gothic churches, enchanting port towns, and culinary marvels like its cheese and cider that leave one yearning for another taste.

Travel through Normandy, and you are greeted by views that seem to leap out of a painter's canvas: staggering cliffs, sandy shores, verdant fields, and regal forests. Equally captivating is the ethereal Mont-Saint-Michel, rising majestically from the tidal bay. And for those seeking the allure of golden sands, the chic beaches of Deauville and Trouville beckon.

Discover Normandy, an evocative blend of history and natural beauty from one of our carefully chosen chateau hotels, boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts in Normandy. If you want to enjoy the region in a more private environment you will find luxury villas and stylish holiday apartments in our selection.

The Pays de la Loire and Centre Val-de-Loire – chateaux and vineyards

In France's picturesque Pays de la Loire, a blend of natural wonders unfurls — from the shimmering Atlantic coasts to meandering rivers, punctuated by salt marshes and expansive natural parks. Nestled between the allure of the sea and the grandeur of iconic châteaux, which dot the banks of France's most celebrated river, the Loire, the region exudes an enchantment that is undeniably captivating.

To the East, the Centre Val-de-Loire with its world-renowned Loire châteaux, exquisite wines, and a heritage that stands as a testament to French culture and the art of living awaits to be discovered. No better place to enjoy life than staying in a  chateau hotel in the Loire valley or an authentic B&B located in a historic town on the shore of the majestic Loire.

Our favourite towns, villages and best places to stay in the East and South East of France

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes – volcanoes and mountain peaks

In the heart of France, Auvergne unfolds as a verdant canvas of lush landscapes and a rustic charm that is undeniably its own. This central French region is marked by its distinct volcanic terrains, shimmering lakes, medieval castles, and quaint villages.

Meanwhile, in Rhône-Alpes, whether carving down snowy trails in Chamonix or meandering around the serene waters of Lake Annecy, the French Alps stand majestic, watching over every moment. A realm that oscillates between the thrill of winter sports and the tranquility of spa resorts, it's a destination that beckons both the adrenaline junkies and those in search of sublime serenity. We have put together a selection of charming mountain chalets and boutique B&B in Rhône-Alpes.

Burgundy and Franche-Comté – l’art de vivre

Bourgogne Franche-Comté paints a picture of refined living, set against a blend of diverse landscapes that underscore its affluence and allure. This region is celebrated for its vineyards, with a culinary legacy featuring delicacies such as coq au vin, escargot de Bourgogne, and the pungent Epoisses cheese. Strolling through the local markets, one is greeted with an array of fresh, premium offerings - from seasonal fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and superior cuts of meat.

Embark on a journey through the region's intricate network of canals, indulging in culinary highlights from Dijon to Châlons-sur-Saône. Then, make your way to the Jura, where breathtaking views of the Alps await, elevating the already enchanting experience. Where to stay in Burgundy? How about a boutique hotel in a historic village, a chateau hotel surrounded by vineyards or a chalet in one of the famous ski resorts?

Alsace and Eastern France – tradition, wine and gastronomy

Alsace, a region with gingerbread houses and wine routes, where French charm meets German fairytales. It's towns shimmer with colorful half-timbered houses, awe-inspiring Gothic churches, and grand medieval castles. Alsace is like stepping into a storybook. Vineyards, renowned for producing some of the world's finest white wines, drape the landscape, while the enchanting Christmas markets add a festive spirit to the region's appeal.

The greater Grand Est region is truly Europe's heart. From Strasbourg, the European capital, venture to the esteemed vineyards of Champagne and Alsace, or let the Vosges mountain ranges captivate you. This region, steeped in memories, bore witness to significant World War I battle, including the iconic Battle of Verdun.

The Vosges present a mesmerizing mountainous landscape, graced with dense forests, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls. The Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park, nestled in the Bas-Rhin, stands as a pristine testament to nature's grandeur, with hiking trails offering panoramic mountain views.

Champagne-Ardenne, to the east of the Parisian basin, boasts rich natural beauty. It unfolds across the chalky plains of Champagne and the damp expanses that define the landscapes of this historic French province, renowned for the world-famous Champagne wine. Here, culinary traditions rise to a crescendo, spotlighting indigenous delights such as the effervescent champagne, Langres cheese, Ardennes ham, Reims mustard, and the delectable pink biscuits of Reims.

Discover the area from one of our boutique hotels in Strasbourg or a country hotel the wine region of Alsace.

The North of France

In the Hauts-de-France region, soaring cathedrals, bell towers, and citadels punctuate the horizon, while its plains narrate tales of a rich mining past. The vibrant carnivals and Lille's grand broderie present the perfect opportunity to indulge in France's crispiest fries before embarking on a serene retreat to the Opal Coast.

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30 unusual places to discover in Paris!

Tired of the subway? So are we! Voulez-vous for something original, fun, improbable and secret? Here are the unusual places to see in Paris!

From the narrowest street in Paris to the Chinese pagoda, the oldest tree in Paris, medieval houses, the witch’s rock, the exotic Cité du Figuier or the smallest house in the capital… In the open air, discover our 30 unusual places in Paris for a Parisian stroll full of surprises and a change of scenery!

1 – France’s road network at ground zero

But what is this compass rose located 50 m from Notre-Dame? Well, it’s the starting point for all the road calculations in France . This is where distances are measured ! One of the most unusual places to visit in Paris.

📍 Parvis de Notre-Dame de Paris, 75004 Paris

2 – Rue du Chat qui pêche, the narrowest street in Paris 

How can a street be 1.80 m wide ? But that’s just the way it is. Rue du chat qui pêche , in the 5th arrondissement, is well known to Parisians as much for its singularity as for its legend. The amazing story of an alchemist and a cat with magical powers … Certainly one of the most unusual places in Paris.

📍 Rue du Chat qui Pêche, 75005 Paris

3 – Le passe-muraille de Montmartre, one of Paris’s most unusual statues

Have you ever seen the silhouette of that strange man ? Le passe-muraille de Montmartre is one of the most unusual statues in Paris . The story goes that Monsieur Dutilleul, an ordinary man, realizes he has a strange power: the ability to pass between walls . From then on, his destiny changed radically.

📍 Place Marcel Aymé, 75018 Paris

4 – La Maison Loo, the unusual Chinese pagoda in Paris

Here’s a building that leaves no one indifferent… The Maison Loo is a pagoda built in 1920 from the Haussmann building , in honor of Asian culture. Collector Ching-Tsai Loo moves in to create a museum. Today, it’s rarely open to the public, but you can still admire the 100-year-old pagoda .

📍 48 Rue de Courcelles, 75008 Paris

5 – La Cité du Figuier, one of the most unusual and exotic places in Paris

In the Folie Méricourt district lies a jewel of greenery: the cité du figuier . A lush, open-air haven of peace that will give you an instant change of scenery.

📍 106 rue Oberkampf, 75011 Paris

6 – The Lavirotte building, named most beautiful facade in Paris in 1901

This Art Nouveau masterpiece by architect Jules Lavirotte was built in the 1900s for ceramist Alexandre Bigot . A year later, the Lavirotte façade won the competition for the most beautiful façade in Paris. Inspired by Gaudi, this architectural feat has been labeled ” 20ᵉ century heritage ” by the government.

📍 29 Avenue Rapp, 75007 Paris

7 – The oldest tree in Paris, Square René Viviani

The Robinier faux Acacia has been delighting Parisians for 421 years . Although the tree loses all its leaves in winter, it is at its most beautiful from May to June . It is adorned with long clusters of divinely fragrant flowers . A must-see Parisian curiosity!

📍 Rue Saint-Julien le Pauvre, 75005 Paris

8 – The splendid façade of the Comédie Italienne

This azure-blue Baroque façade is one of the most original in Paris. Italian Comedy can boast of being the country’s only Italian theater . You’ll discover classic plays by renowned authors as well as more contemporary pieces. A must-see!

📍 17-19 Rue de la Gaité, 75014 Paris

9 – Rue des Degrés, the smallest street in Paris

This colorful and charming street is a curiosity of the capital. With its 14 steps, 5.75 meters long and 3.30 meters wide , Rue des Degrés is the smallest street in Paris. It has even seduced the cinema! And when you see it, you understand why. One of Paris’s most unusual and atypical streets.

📍 Rue des Degrés, 75002 Paris

10 – Witch’s Rock, a haunted place?

Witch’s Rock has always been the focus of the wildest theories . Once there was a fountain, but now you can admire a rock. Some locals even claim the place is haunted . A witch is said to have hanged herself close to the rock , and cursed the place…

📍   Passage de la Sorcière, 75018 Paris

11- The Japanese Garden at the Albert Khan Museum in Boulogne, an unusual and Zen setting

Want to go to Japan? Come and admire the magnificent Japanese garden at the Musée Albert Khan in Boulogne. An idyllic green setting featuring suspension bridges and typical Japanese plant species .

📍 1 Rue des Abondances, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France

12 – Nicolas Flamel, the oldest house in Paris

Did you know that the oldest house in Paris is no less than six centuries old? This ancient building was the home of the famous alchemist Nicolas Flamel . Today, the lair of the holder of the philosopher’s stone is an inn, serving traditional French dishes.

📍 49 Rue de Montmorency, 75003 Paris

13 – Rue Denoyez, the street dedicated to street art

Welcome to the temple of street art . If you’re a fan of urban art, graffiti and pop colors, then rue Denoyez is a must-see. A must for an unusual stopover in the heart of Paris street-art .

📍 Rue Denoyez, 75020 Paris

14 – Les grottes des Buttes Chaumont, a mysterious but fragile place

If we know the Buttes-Chaumont for its magnificent park, its breathtaking views over Paris and its charming guiguette , we may not know it well enough for its caves. But since 2021, the risk of landslides has made visits impossible . Buttes-Chaumont is built on a fragile mineral that becomes brittle as it accumulates water. Work is now underway to save this Parisian landmark from the rockslide .

📍 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris

15 – The Cité clock, the oldest public clock in Paris

Erected in 1371, the Conciergerie clock is one of the jewels of Paris that must be seen at least once in a lifetime . Two allegorical figures accompany it : one representing justice (right) and the other law (left). A masterpiece to be admired day and night.

📍 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris

16 – The bucolic Poplar Square

For a restful, bucolic break in the heart of Paris’s 13th arrondissement, we recommend a visit to the Square des Peupliers . An ideal place to indulge your rural desires .

📍 Square des Peupliers, 75013 Paris 

17 – The smallest house in Paris

After the narrowest and smallest streets in Paris, this time we invite you to admire the smallest house in the capital . 1.40 m wide , 5 m high and 3 m deep , it fills what was once a passageway between Rue du Château d’Eau and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin. One of the most unusual houses in Paris

📍 39 rue du Château-d’Eau, 75010 Paris

18 – Les arènes de Lutèce, a gladiatorial atmosphere in Paris

Who said there were only gladiators in Italy? Built in the 1st century, the Luthèce arenas were once the place to be  . Its hybrid form could accommodate theatrical troupes as well as gladiators , for epic battles!

📍 49 rue Monge, 75005 Paris

19 – The smallest square in Paris, one of the most atypical and unusual places in Paris

Just 40 meters long , Place du Calvaire is the smallest square in the capital. Not devoid of charm, it has attracted artists such as the painters Maurice Neumont and Louis Icart.  One of the most unusual places in Paris, a must-see.

📍 Place du Calvaire, 75018 Paris 

20 – The pet cemetery at Asnières

It’s one of the capital’s must-see sights ! The Asnières animal cemetery is a place dedicated to our animal friends. This unique cemetery houses the graves of cats, dogs, birds, monkeys and horses. Some furry, clawed “stars” like Rintin, the dog actor , are laid to rest here. A unique cemetery to see on Halloween .

📍4 Pont de Clichy, 92600 Asnières-sur-Seine

21 – The Hindu Ganesh temple in the 18th arrondissement of Paris

In the “Little Jaffna” district, in the heart of the 18th arrondissement of Paris, you can discover the Ganesh temple . For the record, this was the very first Hindu temple to be built in France. Open to all, there is one small rule to respect this holy place: take off your shoes. This place of worship honors the supreme deity Ganesh, considered by Hindus to be the god of knowledge , capable of warding off evil by the sheer force of his thought.

📍 17 Rue Pajol, 75018 Paris

22 – The picturesque Villa Léandre in Montmartre

Villa Léandre is a little corner of paradise, blooming with Parisian clichés à la Emily in Paris . And yet, it’s not a movie set, but a Parisian nugget of charming Anglo-Norman and Art Nouveau houses .

📍 25 avenue Junot 75018 Paris 

23 – The unusual planted promenade of the 12th arrondissement

The coulée verte, or planted walkway, is a bubble of greenery that runs through part of eastern Paris and into the 77 department . A 100% pedestrian route stretching 5 km to the Château de Vincennes . An unusual and charming place to stroll in all seasons.

📍 1 Coulée Verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris

24 – The Buddha altar, one of Paris’s most unusual temples

You’ll discover this strange pagoda in a parking lot off Rue du Disque. The Buddha cult temple is a place dedicated to prayers , but also a place for living and sharing, where local residents like to get together .

📍 Rue du Disque, 75013 Paris

25 – The extraordinary garden of the Buddhist Pantheon

For an enchanted, timeless interlude, we recommend a visit to the Japanese Garden of the Buddhist Pantheon . You’ll find all the codes of Zen gardens to give you a change of scenery.

📍19 Avenue d’Iéna, 75116 Paris

26- Le passage de l’Ancre, a colorful, bucolic and unusual place

It’s one of the best-kept secrets of old Paris. In the Passage de l’Ancre , where vegetation is abundant, pretty buildings with colorful facades are sheltered. A perfect place for an original and romantic stroll with your date .

📍223 rue Saint-Martin, 75003 Paris

27 – Medieval houses, unusual buildings to discover

To travel back in time, go to rue François Miron. From here, you can admire medieval houses whose original half-timbering was restored in 1970. Undoubtedly one of the most unusual places in Paris.

📍 Rue François Miron, 75004 Paris 

28 – La Campagne in Paris, a neighborhood with a village feel

This lovely subdivision was a working-class housing estate. Today, it’s one of Paris’s most affluent areas , where leafy residences nestle. We love strolling through the town to admire the architecture of its Anglo-Norman and Alsatian houses.

📍 210 Rue des Pyrénées, 75020 Paris

29 – La Petite Ceinture, one of the most unusual places to see in Paris

Known since time immemorial to Urbex enthusiasts, the Little Belt continues to fascinate us. By 2026, it should extend over a further 4 km , or 7.6 hectares, to promote biodiversity . An unusual Parisian landmark not to be missed.

📍 32.5 km of greenery

30 – The Moulin de la Galette, the only working mill in Paris

This is the very last windmill in Paris . The Moulin de la Galette is one of the remnants of what was once the Montmartre countryside. In the 1900s, it was the place to be seen! It became an open-air guinguette , then expanded into an enclosed ballroom where painters, actors and celebrities of the day strolled. Today, the windmill is still in working order , much to our delight. One of the most unusual places in Paris that you must see!

📍 77 rue Lepic, 75018 Paris

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Unearth Hidden Gems: The Ultimate Guide to Places to Visit

L et's face it; the world is brimming with captivating destinations, each echoing tales of ancient civilizations, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. But with so many places to visit, where do you even begin? Fear not! We've curated a list that dives deep into the heart of global exploration, designed especially for wanderlust souls like you .

TL;DR - Takeaways from this Journey

• France remains the world's tourist darling with a whopping 90 million visitors in 2019.
• The Great Wall of China is not just a wall; it's a testament to human determination.
• Travel is the ultimate education, opening up pages of the world's story.
• Dive deep into unique places offering transformative experiences.
• Insider tips to maximize your travel adventures .

Why France Continues to Reign Supreme

It's no surprise that France tops the charts when it comes to tourism. Its romantic allure, combined with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and culinary mastery, makes it an irresistible destination. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), France was the world's most visited country in 2019, with nearly 90 million international tourists. Whether you're strolling along the Seine in Paris or savoring a glass of Bordeaux in wine country, France promises an enchanting experience.

The Legacy of the Great Wall

Far to the East, China's Great Wall stands as a monumental feat of human engineering. The longest man-made structure in the world , it stretches over 13,000 miles, protecting ancient dynasties and captivating modern-day explorers. As one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World", this iconic landmark is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a journey through China's soul.

Travel: The World's Greatest Storyteller

As Saint Augustine wisely said, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." Through travel, we don't just explore destinations; we uncover layers of our own identities, broadening horizons and enriching our lives.

The Offbeat Trail: Kevin's Recommendations

Every experienced traveler knows that sometimes, the most magical places are tucked away from the bustling tourist hubs. From the azure waters of hidden Mediterranean coves to the untouched rainforests of Central America, there's a universe waiting for the intrepid explorer. Take it from Kevin Erickson, our seasoned travel journalist, who swears by the transformative power of immersive travel.

A Deeper Dive into Travel's Transformative Power

Travel is more than just the excitement of discovering new landscapes or diving into foreign cuisines. It's about the stories that are yet to be told, the experiences waiting to be shared, and the connections we make along the way. It's about pushing boundaries, stepping out of comfort zones, and truly immersing oneself in the essence of a place.

When we travel, we're not just passive observers. We become active participants in a grand narrative, linking our own story with that of the destination. This is where real transformation happens. It's in the quiet moments of reflection as you watch the sun set over an unfamiliar horizon, or the adrenaline rush of navigating a bustling local market. These moments are the heartbeat of travel, and they leave an indelible mark on our souls.

Kevin Erickson often remarks on the beauty of these transformative experiences. "In every corner of the world, there's a lesson waiting to be learned," he says. "Whether it's the resilience of the locals, the undying spirit of ancient traditions, or the simple joys of a shared meal, travel has a way of unveiling truths about the world and our place in it."

So, as we explore the "places to visit" in this guide, remember it's not just about the destination, but the journey and the personal growth that comes with it. The world is full of lessons; all we have to do is step out and embrace them.

Conclusion: The World Awaits!

Ultimately, travel isn't just about ticking boxes. It's a deeply personal journey of discovery, introspection, and growth. So pack those bags, dust off that passport, and embark on a journey to remember. The world, with all its wonders, awaits you.

Why is France so popular among tourists?

France's diverse landscapes, rich history, and renowned culinary scene make it a top destination for travelers worldwide.

How old is the Great Wall of China?

The construction of the wall began in the 7th century BC, with various dynasties adding to it over centuries.

What are some off-the-beaten-path destinations?

Consider exploring the Faroe Islands, Bhutan, or Madagascar for unique and less crowded experiences.

• World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) - Tourism Highlights 2019
• The Great Wall - Historical Facts and Pictures
• Travel Quotes by Famous Explorers - Quote Collection