21 Best Cities in France to Visit that Aren’t Paris

Chances are when you think of visiting France one of the first things that pops into your mind is Paris. While I definitely recommend a visit to Paris, France is full of wonderful cities that deserve a consideration when you are building your France itinerary.

France is a huge country so choosing where to go in France can be a bit overwhelming as you are absolutely spoiled for choice. With so many fantastic options, France is one of those places you can visit multiple times and still not have seen it all.

With that in mind, I asked travel bloggers to share their favourite French city. The resulting list is some of the best places to visit in France and each offers a fantastic place to base yourself to explore the city and the countryside around it. If you choose to venture beyond Paris, you will often find yourself with cheaper accommodation options and fewer other tourists to contend with.

I’ve separated the cities out by region to make it easier to navigate or plan a trip to the area. The South of France is one of the most popular regions to visit and is full of beautiful cities to spend your vacation in. Even though the south of France is a popular destination, the other regions of France can offer up different experiences in architecture, food, and culture that shouldn’t be ignored. There is something on this list of must-see places in France for every type of traveler.

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Best Cities in Normandy and Northern France

Lille

By Delahaye of Hues of Delahaye | Instagram

Lille is one of France’s more underrated cities, but if you are looking for authenticity and culture, this is the city to visit.

Lille is a city located in beautiful French Flanders. It was founded in 640, ruled by the Flemish, Burgundians, and the Spanish before being conquered by the French. 

Lille in France's Flemish region is one of the best cities to visit in France because it offers up a historic center and great museums and food for a fraction of the price of Paris. This is one place not to miss when planning a trip to France
Lille, France. Photo by Delahaye of Hues of Delahaye

Lille is big on history, especially art and architecture, and this is evident in the charming Flemish-inspired old town. Their galleries boast works by Rubens and Manet, and streets lined with beautiful churches, cafes, and cathedrals. 

So, be sure to visit the stunning Palais des Beaux-Arts, Lille’s renowned art museums. The Grand Place, a central square in the city. The Old Stock Exchange (The Vieille Bourse) building constructed in 1652 and is one of Lille’s most architecturally impressive buildings – designed with 24 identical houses built around the inner square. Visit in the afternoon, to see locals playing chess in the courtyard or browse the second-hand book market selling only French books.

If you are planning on visiting Lille, walk along the narrow cobbled streets, explore the famous botanical gardens and sample excellent food at local restaurants for a fraction of the price you’d find in Paris.

Lille’s cuisine is a fusion of French and Flemish influences and is so much more than mussels and chips. But this is one of the dishes the city is known for, so do it try. It’s delicious. 

All this makes Lille one of the best city in France that I’ve visited.

Rouen

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan | Instagram

Rouen is a beautiful city that serves as the capital of the northern region of Normandy. But despite its provincial capital status, it’s still a small, walkable city with a population of 110,000. In many ways, walking its cobblestone streets and looking up at the half-timbered houses feels like stepping in back in time, or like stepping into Diagon Alley if you’re a Harry Potter fan.

Half timbered buildings in Rouen, France. Rouen is the capital of the Normandy region and was a popular place for Monet to paint. It's also a walkable city with an interesting history,.
The half-timbered buildings of Rouen, France. Photo by Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Its many churches have earned it the nickname “City of a Hundred Spires”. The most famous of these is the Rouen Cathedral, which featured in many paintings by Monet. It’s an eclectic mix of architectural styles with roots going back as far as the 4th century AD. Another church not to miss is the imposing Abbatiale St-Ouen. It’s often mistaken for the Cathedral because it’s so large. In fact, its vaults are even higher than those in the Cathedral.

Rouen also has a darker side to its history, and there are some poignant reminders of these times. This is where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, and the spot is marked by a small field of wildflowers. Another macabre but oddly beautiful attraction is the 16th-century Aître St-Maclou. It was once used as a burial ground for victims of the plague, and the decorations on the building feature skulls, bones and other reminders of death.

Bayeux

Sharon of Exploring Our World | Pinterest

The charming town of Bayeux gives you a way to experience a medieval French town while at the same time enjoying modern conveniences. The quiet, winding lanes and cobblestone streets transport you back in time as you wander among the half-timbered buildings. Just a few miles from the channel coast of Normandy, Bayeux is a quick 2-hour train ride from Paris. You can zip here for a couple of days for a change from big city life.

The waterwheel in Bayeux, France. Bayeux is the perfect city in France to visit the D-day Beaches from as well as taste some of the delicious foods of Normandy and tour the medieval city.
Bayeux, France. Photo by Sharon of Exploring Our World

People visit from all over the world to see the Bayeux Tapestry, a UNESCO artwork. The tapestry is almost 230 feet in length and 20 inches high. The embroidered scenes depict events of the Norman conquest of England by William, Duke of Normandy and ending with the Battle of Hastings.

Bayeux is the perfect base for exploring the D-Day beaches. It boasts an excellent World War II museum and a peaceful cemetery dedicated to British soldiers who died bringing freedom back to the town in 1944. Bayeux is also the meeting place for in-depth tours of the nearby battlegrounds.

Even if you are not one to tour battlefields or marvel at historic art, you can enjoy Bayeux for its outstanding fresh cuisine. The countryside of Normandy that surrounds the town is home to prime farming and dairy. So, in Bayeux, you can treat yourself to cheeses and fresh produce. With the channel nearby, fishermen provide seafood that will melt in your mouth. Stop by a boulangerie for crusty bread, add some cheeses and fruit, grab a bottle of wine, and you’re all set for a delightful picnic.

Bayeux offers something for everyone. It certainly tops the list of my favorite cities in France.

Etretat

By Chandresh of Family on the Wheels | Instagram

Located around 250 Km from Paris, Etretat is a small town in the Normandy region of northern France. An amazingly beautiful town located on the coast with naturally carved white cliffs and rock formations. This place has a historical significance referring to World War II and one can discover old bunkers and canon marks on the rocks.

The town of Etretat in France with beautiful white cliffs. The cliffs are the highlight of a visit and have WWII significance as well as being an inspiration for painters like Monet.
Etretat, France. Photo by Chandresh of Family on the Wheels

Art lovers will find it fascinating that Claude Monet found inspiration for many of his masterpieces from Etretat and Giverny. Other places of interest in Etretat include Notre-Dame church, a 1950’s chapel, and a beautiful garden hosting amazing stone sculpture created by famous landscape architect Alexandre Grivko.

Climb the cliff for a breathtaking view of the sea, feel the gusts of wind blowing across your face messing up your hair, lie down on the beach while sipping beers, on a low tide day explore the underneath caves, and taking a walk on the boardwalk along the seashore is the ideal way to spend a day in the town.

The nearest city is Honfleur and you can find regular buses running for as low as € 2 a ticket.  

Tip:  Avoid visiting on weekend especially in spring/summer as it gets really overcrowded and the town has limited car parking options.

Lyon and the French Alps

Lyon

By Jenni of Hoopla Adventures | Instagram

As a self-confessed foodie and Francophile, I declare Lyon as my favourite city in France. I first discovered France’s third most populous city while living as a hotel and restaurant manager in the Alps on a long weekend to escape the bubble of mountain life!

The city of Lyon in France from the river. Lyon is one of France's largest cities and is known as the gastronomy capital of France. This charming city has an interesting history with secret passageways around the old town for silk workers to use. It's one of the best cities to visit in France if you're a foodie.
Lyon, France. Photo by Jenni of Hoopla Adventures.

Instantly I saw why the locals referred to it as the gastronomy capital of France. You might have even heard of the famous Lyonnaise cuisine. The city is known for traditional ‘bouchons’ which in the past served filling portions of dishes like Coq au Vin and potatoes to the workers, now mostly locals and hungry tourists. For the best authentic bouchon experience head to the Presqu’île area and if you’re on a budget look out for lunchtime set menus.

The city has more than just a delectable food scene, its history is fascinating! Climb up to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière which towers over the city, discover a magnificent Roman amphitheatre and learn more about Guignol the famous French hand puppet. Tourists mostly stick to the historic old town (Vieux Lyon) where you can find old passageways that connect the streets between buildings and the wonderful Musée Cinéma et Miniature, a museum of film miniatures and memorabilia from Hollywood and beyond. Lyon was also home to the Lumière brothers, and you can explore the beginnings of cinema in the Institut Lumière museum.

Two rivers run through Lyon, the Rhône and the Saône, perfect for riverside strolls from the old town into the city’s shopping streets. Head up to Rousse Hill for outdoor markets, and La Maison des Canuts to learn about the city’s silk trade and silk workers and to see the revolutionary Jacquard loom machine.

Lyon is the most interesting city for me, a gateway to the Alps with amazing food, history and largely underrated as a tourist destination.

Annecy

By Arzo of Arzo Travels

It might be arguable whether Annecy is a town or city. What is for sure is that Annecy is one of the best cities or towns to visit in France. Why? There are many reasons for visiting Annecy: colorful medieval houses, with the many canals, the clean and alpine air, and the proximity to a gorgeous, pristine lake.

View of the river and colourful buildings in Annecy, France. Annecy France is one of the most colorful and beautiful cities to visit when you travel to France with plenty of things to do there.
Annecy, France. Photo by Arzo of Arzo Travels

While the buildings are vivid in the summer months, the many flower pots with flowers in all different colors make this place even more beautiful and colorful. Strolling the old town with its narrow streets (also visit the Palais de L´Isle – one of the main attractions and make a stop at Château d’Annecy) and lovely houses is reason enough to fall in love

But there is more to Annecy – it is also known as the Venice of the Alps. Crossing the many small bridges is one of the best things to do. 

And make sure to spend some time at Lake Annecy. The clear lake just a stone throw from the old town is set against the Alps – making it even more picture-perfect. You can also enjoy some water sports, do a boat tour or just chill at the lake.

Annecy is much more than a city – it is a perfect combination of town and nature!

Cities in Brittany and Western France

Nantes

By Elisa of World in Paris | Facebook

Nantes, in the French region of Pays de la Loire, is a very cool place to explore in Western France, near the Atlantic coast. The city is located at only 2 hours by TGV train from Paris so it is an easy weekend getaway from the French capital.

Once the capital of the powerful Duchy of Brittany, Nantes has an interesting past still present thanks to its rich heritage. The Dukes of Brittany’s castle and the Gothic cathedral, for example, are among Nantes’ main sights.

The river Loire and buildings in Nantes, western France. This city is home to Jules Verne museum as well as fantastic architecture and is just a short trip from Paris.
Nantes, France. Photo by Elisa of World in Paris

Nantes is crossed by the Loire River from east to west, and in the past, the city was one of the most important ports of the longest river in France. Today, the Loire banks are great for an afternoon stroll or a drink in one of its terrace bars when the good weather arrives.

Nantes is also Jules Verne’s birthplace and a visit to his museum is a must. The small but interesting museum contains personal objects of Jules Verne and his family plus gives a very comprehensive tour of his novels.

Finally, don’t miss Nantes’ main highlight, Les Machines de l’Ile. This is a group of quirky machines invented by a theater company and installed on the grounds of the Isle of Nantes. Among these machines, the wandering elephant and the giant carousel of the seven seas are people’s favorites and a tour on the elephant’s loin is a must of any visit to Nantes.

Brest

By Alysa of Voyaging Herbivore | Instagram

Brest, France is a beautiful port city located in Brittany. While not often visited by tourists, you are sure to find some amazing sites and activities that those who simply head to Paris won’t get to experience. Brest does have many stunning beaches but be prepared for cold water! Still, many locals will spend summer Sundays with a picnic on the beach, enjoying the lapping waves.

When not soaking up a tan, get to know Brest for its maritime history and aquatic life. The Oceanapolis Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Brittany, and if you head there at the right time of the year, you’ll likely get to see baby sea creatures as well. Other attractions include the Abbaye de Daoulas and the medieval Chateau de Brest, which is one of the few remaining relics from before World War II in Brest.

Brest port in France. This Brittany city is a great one to visit to get a taste of French life.
Brest, France. Image by Baptiste Heschung from Pixabay

If you’re looking for a true taste of Francophone life, Brest is a great place to set your home base during your time in France. You’ll have access to easy public transportation to get around the major city, as well as opportunities to head further into the jaw-droppingly gorgeous Brittany countryside. Brest is certainly not a stop to be missed and is ideal for history lovers, foodies, and photographers alike!

Alsace

Colmar

By Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting | Instagram

Colmar is a must-see city in France that should be on everyone’s bucket list. We travel to the Alsace region a lot because Mike is often sent there for work. That means we make a point to explore the area and Colmar is among our favorite cities. The charm and beauty of Colmar is beyond anything we have seen elsewhere in Europe. 

There are so many things to do in Colmar. Visitors should make sure to sample delicious Alsatian food while there. It’s a blend of German and French cuisine and the result is delicious. Colmar is also the perfect destination for wine lovers. The city lies in the heart of Alsatian wine country and there are wine houses all over the city. If you pay them a visit you can arrange a wine tasting and sample the best of the local vineyards.

The half timbered buildings that are characteristic of Colmar with a church in the background. Colmar is a must see city in France that has delicious Alsatian food and a beautiful Little Venice area
Colmar, France. Photo by Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

Beyond food and drink, Colmar is famous for its timber-framed houses and canals. The part of the city known as Le Petite Venise, or Little Venice, is known for a network of canals and bridges. You can even arrange a gondola ride through the waterways. It’s truly stunning, and you can fill your day getting lost in the streets of Colmar.

There are also beautiful and historic churches in Colmar like The Dominican Church and Saint Martin’s Church. You can explore local art and history in the Unterlinden Museum. Make sure to visit the gorgeous carousel, Carrousel 1900, in Parc du Champ de Mars. There’s something for everyone in Colmar and that’s why it’s the best city to visit in France.

Strasbourg

By Brianna of Curious Travel Bug

Strasbourg is a fantastic city to visit in France’s Alsace region. The city has a beautiful old town to explore. This region is known as Petite France is renowned for its canals and adorable cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered buildings. A highlight of the area is the massive Strasbourg Cathedral that sits at the centre of the old town.

Canal on the Rhine River with Half-timbered houses lining it in Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, France. Photo by Brianna of Curious Travel Bug

One of Strasbourg’s most famous sights is the massive Christmas market that is put on every year from November to December. The Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe and is the perfect winter destination in France to experience the charm of the markets. Each of the main squares in Strasbourg’s Petite France old town puts on a different themed Christmas market so there is plenty to explore.

In addition to great architecture, Strasbourg is also a fantastic place to try Alsatian food and wine. Flammekueche is a popular one to try as it is basically the Alsatian version of pizza. It’s a thin crust topped with creme fraiche, onions, and ham.

Strasbourg is reachable by high-speed train in only 2 hours from Paris. It’s perfectly placed to explore some of the smaller Alsatian villages like Obernai or Eguisheim or to take a day to explore charming Colmar.

The French Riviera

Saint-Tropez

By Sarah Vanheel of CosmopoliClan | Instagram

Known for its fancy yachts and glamorous party scene, St Tropez is a French Riviera hotspot for the jet-set. On the luxurious surface, this celebrity magnet has quite the reputation to uphold. But at the heart of this former fishing village, you’ll find a much mellower and incredibly charming atmosphere.

Colorful buildings of St Tropez with yachts in the harbor. This luxurious destination is one of the best destinations in the south of France.
Saint-Tropez, France. Photo by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

When you wander the picturesque streets of the old La Ponche district, you’ll discover gorgeous pastel-colored houses, hints of fragrant bougainvillea, inviting restaurants with convivial terraces and picture-perfect cafés offering a welcome break from the summer heat.

Saunter the friendly farmers market at the Place des Herbes, enjoy the sweeping views from the citadel, visit one of the colorful art galleries and sink your teeth in a yummy Tarte Tropézienne under the linden trees at the Place des Lices.

Explore the natural highlights along the Sentier Littoral hiking trail or take in the scenic views from Cape Camarat. Visit some of the enchanting Var villages nearby, such as Bormes-les-Mimosas and Ramatuelle, or take a day trip to some of the other French Riviera cities, such as Cannes and Nice.

There truly is more to this gorgeous Mediterranean gem than its sparkling surface would lead you to believe.

Nice

By Chrysoula of Travel Passionate

Nice is arguably one of the best cities to visit in France as it boasts history and culture, stunning architecture, a gorgeous climate, spectacular beaches and a pristine promenade that connects each of these things to make it even easier for us travelers to explore!

Located on the French Riviera looking out over the azure Mediterranean waters, Nice is the perfect place to seek out some sunshine as it’s thought to receive around 300 days of sun per year. This means that spring, summer, and autumn pretty much guarantee bright, sunny days which makes it ideal for discovering the city sights and reclining on the warm, golden sands.

The Mediterranean Sea and the colourful buildings in the southern France city of Nice. This city is easily accessible by train and plane and offers up tons of things to do in Nice.
Nice, France. Photo by Chrysoula of Travel Passionate

The city itself stretches inland from the coast, with ochre-coloured houses topped with terracotta roofs making photographs look like a postcard every time. Nice features a whole host of chateaux, parks, museums, beaches, markets, and restaurants, so there’s something for absolutely everyone to enjoy.

Nice is also home to an epic Mardi Gras carnival every year which features extravagant parades, hilarious caricatures and a flower fiesta like never before! If you want to experience Nice Carnival, make sure you plan well in advance as this spring spectacular receives thousands of visitors from around the world each year.

Even if you’ve visited other cities in France, you’re sure to be impressed by Nice’s unique culture, local cuisine and laid-back atmosphere that makes it stand out against the rest. Plus, the city is really accessibly both by plane and train so there really is no excuse not to explore this stunning southern city!

Best Places to Visit in Provence and Southern France

Aix-en-Provence

By Brittany of Bucketlist Bri | Instagram

Aix-en-Provence – or simply Aix as the locals call it – is a charming, sun-soaked town in the south of France with elegant courtyards and pastel facades.

If you follow the maze of winding cobblestone streets and reach the heart of Aix, you’ll quickly find out why Aix-en-Provence is one of the best cities to visit in France. Amid bustling outdoor markets and luxurious storefronts sits a richly historic center brimming with trendy restaurants, cafes, fountains, and not to mention the most satisfying homemade madeleines you could ever dream of (Tip: you can find them at the hole-in-the-wall shop of Madeleines De Christophe). 

The streets of Aix-en-Provence in southern France. Aix-en-Provence is one of the best cities in the south of France to base yourself in because there are plenty of things to do nearby, including visiting the Mediterranean Sea.
Aix-en-Provence, France. Photo by Brittany of Bucketlist Bri.

Beyond Aix’s curated streets lies a slow-paced coastal lifestyle. The Mediterranean Sea is just a quick 35-minute drive away while the limestone mountains surrounding Aix make for a great outdoor adventure. In fact, the picturesque landscapes enveloping Aix-en-Provence are what inspired the famous impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, who was born and died in Aix.

There are many things to do in Aix for a weekend getaway or a week-long trip. So whether it’s to escape to the leisurely provincial life of the French countryside, inspire your hidden artistic talent, or go on a shopping craze, Aix has something for everyone.

Ultimately, with its sheer cuteness combined with its coastal climate and car-free historic center, Aix has to be one of the best cities to visit in the south of France! 

Gordes

By Bliss Eatts of Travel for Bliss

Gordes is one of the best towns to visit in France. Filled with Southern French charm and picturesque vistas it’s truly a must-visit, especially as it is one of the famous hilltop towns in Provence. If you drive up to it from the south it makes you gasp with awe when it comes into view. A chateau is perched at the top of the hill and the rest of the town spreads down the cliff in ancient, limestone coloured buildings. Come for a day or spend a week and you’ll never get sick of the views.

Gordes is one of the best towns in France to visit because it is one of the best hilltop town in Provence and is full of delicious food and beautiful architecture. Pictured here is the chateau in Gordes and the town that spreads out below it.
Gordes, France. Photo by Bliss of Travel for Bliss

Gordes is a famous artist town, and the chateau is an art museum because of this. Before the artists found Gordes and turned it into a creative commune it was becoming a ghost town. The chateau is a beautiful tribute to the art that saved the town, and always has a temporary art exhibit, as well as a long-running one. There is also a small museum at the beginning so you can understand the history of Gordes.

Make sure you give yourself time to wander the winding cobbled laneways. Each house is old, beautiful, and unique with painted shutters. The shops sell boutique creations and Provence produce, great for souvenirs and mementos. Stop into the bakeries for some fresh croissants and coffee or check out the restaurants for delicious French cooking. The views will be just as amazing as the food. La Trinquette was one of our favourite restaurants in Gordes.

Other must-dos when visiting Gordes are the Caves du Palais Saint Firmin (ancient caves right in the centre of town), the Village des Bories (a glimpse into ancient French life), and the Abbaye de Senanque, which has stunning lavender fields. Gordes is one of the most beautiful towns I’ve ever seen and belongs on any French itinerary.

Montpellier

By Adrienne of Bucket Half Full | Instagram

Montpellier is a fantastic city to visit in the South of France. The capital of the Languedoc region, it makes a great home base to visit smaller villages in the region, such as Sète or St-Guilhem-le-Désert. Montpellier is a young, student city and its vibe is electric. Even into December, there are dozens of outdoor patios where you can find locals enjoying a glass of local wine.

Colourful stairs in Montpelliers Ancient Quarter. This city is off the beaten track in France but it's one of the best places to visit in France.
Montpellier, France. Photo by Adrienne of Bucket Half Full.

The majority of the old town is pedestrian-only, with traffic being limited to the delivery vehicles of the local businesses. One of the best times to visit Montpellier is at the end of November for the Coeur de Lumières festival. Many of the city’s historic sites, such as Musée Fabre and the Porte du Peyrou, are light up with elaborate animations. The Christmas market is also in full swing at this time, so be sure to grab a cup of mulled wine while you walk around and enjoy the lights.

If you visit in the warmer weather, be sure to check out Marché du Lez, a local hangout with food stalls, vintage shops, and a lively pétanque setup. Montpellier is a colourful city with a unique vibe and I definitely recommend you visit if you want to get off the beaten track in the South of France.

Nîmes

By Ann of The Road Is Life | Instagram

If you love Roman history, you’ll want to add Nîmes to your France bucket list. Situated in Southern France, one hour from Montpellier, this picturesque French city is packed full of impressive, well-preserved Roman monuments. Apart from its fascinating Roman history, Nîmes also has a beautiful historic centre along with lovely gardens featuring fountains and sculptures.

One of the most popular attractions of Nîmes is the 2000-year-old Roman Arena that stands in the heart of the city. It may not be as big as the Colosseum in Rome but it’s one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world!

Maison Carree located in the southern France city of Nimes. This along with the ampitheatre and Pont du Gard are some of the top attraction in the city of Nimes.
Maison Carrée in Nimes, France. Photo by Ann of The Road Is Life

Another one that cannot be missed is the Maison Carrée, a stunning Roman temple surrounded by intricately designed columns. This ancient temple was built over 2000 years ago and it also happens to be the best-preserved of its kind.

A visit to Nîmes isn’t complete without exploring the Pont-du-Gard, the Roman aqueduct which is a 30-minute drive from the city. Built in the 1st century AD, its purpose was to transport water to the Roman city of Nîmes. Once again, this monument is one of the best-preserved aqueducts and it has been listed as a UNESCO heritage site.

Nîmes deserves a spot on anyone’s Southern France itinerary and it is an absolute must for any history lovers!

Arles

By Gillian of Bucket List France | Instagram

The city of Arles is located in Southern France within the sunny department of Provence. It’s a perfect setting, on the banks of the River Rhone, next to the Camargue natural park and less than an hour from the Mediterranean Sea. This is perhaps why the Romans made it their provincial capital and the artist Vincent Van Gogh became so inspired that he produced 300 paintings here.

It’s an ideal city to explore on foot, with the majority of must-see attractions in a concentrated area. Beginning with a Roman theme, you really have to visit the impressive Amphitheatre (Les Arènes) where gladiators used to fight to the death. Considering it was constructed 3000 years ago, it’s in great shape and there is loads to see. You may even recognise it from the exciting gunfight in Robert De Niro’s movie, Ronin?  

The Roman ampitheatre in Arles France. The city of Arles is conveniently located in the south of France and is full of Roman ruins to explore.
The ampitheatre in Arles, France. Photo by Gillian of Bucket List France.

Just across the road from the Amphitheatre, are the impressive remains of a Roman theatre (Theatre Antique), however, the jewel in the crown, is the incredible Roman Museum of Arles (Musée Départemental Arles Antique). This is probably the best collection of Roman artefacts outside of Rome. It includes an unbelievably well-preserved barge complete with cargo, mosaics, statues, pottery, and intricately carved sarcophagi.

Anyone interested in art will delight in walking around the city and spotting the various scenes from Vincent Van Gogh’s famous paintings. Head toward the river and see where ‘Starry Night Over the Rhone’ was set, or to the Place du Forum to see the café where ‘Café in the Evening’ was conceived. The highlight for me was the beautiful rose perfumed hospital courtyard where Vincent stayed. Incidentally, this is where the painting ‘The Courtyard of Hospital at Arles’ was created and it’s hardly changed at all.

Avignon

By Nadine of Le Long Weekend | Facebook

Known as both the cultural and transport hub of Provence, it’s no wonder that most visitors to Provence will pass through Avignon at some point during their trip to the region. But it’s worth far more than a passing glance. Dive into the historical centre of the city and you’ll find an incredible range of attractions and activities to keep you occupied for days.

Situated on the banks of the Rhône River in Southern France, Avignon was once the seat of the papacy and a renowned centre of culture and learning in the Middle Ages. This legacy has lived on and the city is still humming with festivals and events that celebrate the city’s artistic roots.

Explore within the ancient town walls, which, with its cobbled lanes and charming streets, feels more like a village than a city. Take in the famous sites such as the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon.

Avignon city in southern France. This city feels more like a small village with its charming streets.
Avignon, France. Photo by Nadine of Le Long Weekend

Admire the views from the raised Rocher des Doms gardens, and shop for sweet treats in the lively Les Halles markets. And be sure to wander away from the crowds too, as there are many treasures to be discovered around quiet corners. Barthelasse Island, for example, lays just a quick walk, or short (free!) ferry ride from the city centre and creates a rural and tranquil juxtaposition from the buzzing city centre.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port 

By Millie of Amateurist Advice | Instagram

St. Jean Pied de Port is a beautiful little town located in the foothills of the Pyrenees. Its name translates to “foot of the pass”, and is most commonly known as the starting point for the Camino de Santiago. From here pilgrims will hike up the Pyrenees mountains and cross over to Spain. But St. Jean is so much more than a starting point for this world-renowned trek.

View of the Nive river and stone bridges in Saint Jean Pied de Port, the start of the Camino de Santiago. This town is a great break from the city while offering up lots to do in this must visit town in France.
St. Jean Pied de Port in France. Photo by Millie of Amateurist Advice

It is a beautiful historical town where you can enjoy the cuisine and pastries of the Basque region. The most delicious cake I’ve ever tasted was in St. Jean. It was layers of meringue, filled with butter icing. The cake was from Barbier-Millox , self-proclaimed “ le roi du gateau Basque,” or “king of the Basque cake”. Seriously, the cake was enough to make the trip worth the journey.

Apart from delicious cakes, St. Jean also offers some of the most picturesque scenery. It is a fortified town and to this day the walls still stand. There are also beautiful views of the Nive river surrounded by historical buildings, and stone bridge crossings. Upon entering, it feels as if you’re taking a walk back in time.

On your visit make sure to take a stroll on the Rue de la Citadelle. The cobblestone road is full of shops and pilgrims ready to hike the Camino de Santiago. At the top of the Citadelle, you can catch a gorgeous view of green valleys dotted with red-tiled roofs.

This romantic little town is the perfect place to get away from the busy city and to learn more about the Basque culture in France.

Toulouse

By Amandine of Les Berlinettes

This year I discovered Toulouse, France’s capital of rugby. Toulouse is the second biggest student city after Paris. Which means, there is always something going on. From the many rugby events, art performances, parties, and some great nightlife.

Toulouse is also a great city of the South of France. It mixes Spanish heritage and France charm.

Toulouse (AKA the Pink City) is famous for its pink buildings and great architecture, from typical French buildings to some Art Deco buildings and medieval churches.

The pink city of Toulouse in southern France is a must visit place in France and is the second largest city after Paris
Toulouse, France. Image by gael-M from Pixabay

Toulouse reminded me of a little Paris. Its Vieux Quartier (old quarter) is easily walkable and can be visited in one or two days.

Besides this, Toulouse is also home to the Garonne river. On its banks, you will find many events happening all year-long such as gastronomic pop-up events. Toulouse has indeed some of the best food in France; cassoulet, saucisse de Toulouse, or duck confit are some of the best dishes in the city.

From Toulouse starts the Canal du Midi that goes until the Mediterranean. It is a great piece of French engineering and most people cycle the Canal du Midi in spring, summer, and fall! 

Carcassonne

By Kieren of Got My Backpack

Carcassonne is a quaint medieval city in Southern France. Aside from the cobbled streets, grand buildings and cute canals that make the city a joy to explore, undeniably the city’s main attraction is the enormous fortress overlooking the city, Cité de Carcassonne. 

Thanks to various restorations over the years, the 2,500-year-old settlement is still in relatively good condition and in 1997 received UNESCO world heritage status that will help protect it in the future.

The walls of the fortress at Carcassonne. This walled city is a UNESCO site in southern France that is worth visiting to see this massive fortress.
Carcassonne, France. Photo by Kieran of Got My Backpack

Inside the fortress’s two concentric walls with 52 towers lies a castle, a basilica and a 27-acre ancient town that is still alive and well today. There are bustling shops, mainly selling souvenirs alongside an array of cafes and restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines, although they can be a little pricey.

Whilst it’s free to enter the fortress, there is an entrance fee to the castle itself where you can visit the courtyards and walk along the ramparts – the parts that overhang castle walls to allow defenders to drop arrows and projectiles on attackers during a siege. Here you’ll also get the best view across the stunning French countryside that surrounds the fortress.

Best Places to Visit in France

There it is, 21 of the best cities to visit in France. If you’ve travelled to any of these cities or have them on your travel wishlist, I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.

Hopefully, this list gave you some inspiration for visiting France and adding a city to your itinerary outside of Paris. France is one of my favourite places to visit and there are so many of these cities on my must-visit list of places in France.

When to Visit France

France can be visited year round but if you can, I would try to avoid visiting in July-August when the weather can get very hot. Cheaper hotel rooms won’t necessarily have air conditioning and it can be uncomfortable. July and August are also peak travel times so you will have the most crowded conditions around popular tourist sites.

The shoulder seasons in the spring and autumn make for a great time to visit France. The weather is more comfortable, places are less crowded, and prices for rooms are generally cheaper. The winter season is a great time to visit France if you are looking for Christmas markets or skiing.

Getting Around France

The train system works well for traveling between major cities. In some cases, there are high-speed lines that can get you between Paris and other cities quite quickly. If you want to add smaller towns to your itinerary, you may want to consider renting a car. It will add a lot of flexibility to your itinerary and allow you to fit in smaller locations. To avoid too much driving time, you may want to consider taking a train to a main city in the region and then renting a car for part of your vacation time. I’ve done this in the past in France and it has worked well to mix train and car rentals, both in terms of cost and time efficiency.

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40 Comments

  1. I am so bothered that I never explored more of France! It is a shame. But this year I really want to go for Lavender blossom and Colmar. Thanks to this list, I got some more places to visit now!

    1. Thanks Sarah, the contributors to this collab had such fantastic photos it made me want to spend all my vacation time in France this year! I’m glad there are some new places on the list for you. Colmar is a fantastic place to visit.

  2. I feel fortunate to have been able to visit many of these, but Annecy is one I haven’t experienced yet. I’d put that at the top of my list for my next trip to France!

    1. That is very fortunate. I definitely need to visit some more of these cities, especially the southern France ones. Annency looks like such a cute city and seems like a good location to base yourself to explore some of the Alps.

  3. Thank you for providing such a great list of French cities! I booked three weeks in France in the spring but haven’t figured out where I want to go yet, so this post will be a great help in planning my trip!

    1. You’re welcome! Three weeks in France gives you so many possibilities. And spring will be such a nice time to travel, hope you have a wonderful time.

  4. Some great places here I need to visit ASAP. Rouen is one of my favorites, and I loved Nice, but there are so many towns in France to see. I need to do a driving holiday for sure

  5. This is a great list! I spent a month exploring Provence (I second that Aix is a dream town that you have to visit!) but I haven’t gone to the North of France yet, saving for when I go! Crazy how big France is!

    1. A month exploring Provence sounds like a dream vacation! France is such a huge country, it’s incredible the diversity in scenery and cities that exists there. I’m planning my next France trip to be to the south and Aix is high on my travel wishlist.

    1. Nothing wrong with only having seen Paris, it’s a fantastic city! Glad this post could give you a few ideas for your next France vacation. I’m also thinking I will visit the South of France next.

  6. France is certainly a country I need to explore more of. I keep saying that and this post made me realize that I need to stop saying that and actually do it. Thanks for the ideas!

    1. Hopefully you get a chance to explore more of France. After seeing all the great cities in the South of France it made me realize I really need to visit that area of the country.

  7. Goodness what a fantastic list, and so many fab bloggers. I have been to France quite a few times, but I have missed most of these cities! I guess I will just have to go back and see more. I love anywhere with a château! 😉

    1. Thanks, the contributors really did a fantastic job! France is just such a huge city, it’s easy to miss places. This list made me realize I really need to explore the South of France. Hopefully next time.

  8. I admit I have totally neglected France. I have only been to Paris once when I was at school at quite frankly that isn’t good enough – especially as I’m a Brit and can get the train! This is a really inspiring guide for me to get some good ideas, thank you for sharing.

    Tamara

    1. Being able to get the train to France instead of having deal with a day or two or jet lag is definitely a huge bonus. I’m happy you like the article, hopefully you can get a chance to visit some of these cities soon 🙂

  9. All of these towns look so charming and beautiful! I’m embarrassed to admit I’ve been to Paris twice and nearby areas but have yet to visit the rest of the country. You’ve inspired me to want to go back to France! ?

    1. I’m glad this list has inspired you to want to revisit France! I think on my next trip to France I am going to try and resist visiting Paris again, even though I love it, because there are just so many other places I want to see.

  10. This is a fantastic round up – I think it’s so worth it to get out of the “main” tourist destination cities in Europe and explore lesser known ones. I personally loved Lyon and Nice when I backpacked France. Great post !

    1. Thanks Erin. Getting out of the main tourist destinations is definitely a good thing. The vibe of the country is totally different outside of the capital. Lyon and Nice are high on my travel wishlist for France.

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