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France is filled with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and world-class cities just waiting to be explored.
From castles and vineyards to coastlines and mountains, the best places to visit in France offer something for every type of traveler.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the best places to visit in France and the top destinations in the country, along with tips for planning your own France adventure.
The French Riviera
Stretching along the sunny Mediterranean coastline, the French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is one of the best places to visit in France.
Highlights include Nice with its vibrant Old Town and gorgeous Promenade des Anglais beachfront promenade.
For stunning coastal scenery, make your way to the cliffside village of Èze or the iconic Calanques, rocky inlets near Marseille filled with turquoise waters.
Beach lovers should also put the Dune du Pilat on their list; it’s the tallest dune in Europe.
With its azure waters and pretty towns like Saint-Tropez and Cannes, it’s easy to see why the French Riviera captures so many hearts.
Paris
No trip to France is complete without spending time in its magnificent capital, Paris.
Home to world-renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum, Paris truly has something for everyone to enjoy.
Wander along the Seine River, shop at bustling markets, and soak up the charm of neighborhoods like Montmartre and the Latin Quarter.
Be sure to stroll through the manicured gardens of the Luxembourg Palace and climb to the top of Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking views of the “City of Light.”
With its rich art, culture, and irresistible cafe culture, it’s no wonder Paris tops most travelers’ lists of favorite destinations in France.
Provence
Located in southeastern France, Provence boasts gorgeous, rugged landscapes dotted with lavender fields, vineyards, and sun-drenched hilltop villages.
Spend your days exploring Roman ruins in Arles, wandering Avignon‘s UNESCO-listed walled city, and pausing for picture-perfect views of the Pont du Gard aqueduct.
Foodies will love sampling local specialties like ratatouille, tapenade, and Bandol wines surrounded by the graceful Mont Sainte-Victoire backdrop.
Other top places to visit include Aix-en-Provence with its atmospheric markets and beautiful Cours Mirabeau thoroughfare, as well as hilltop villages like Gordes and Ménerbes for prime Instagramming opportunities.
The Dordogne Region
Nestled in southwestern France, the Dordogne region treats visitors to the rich countryside dotted with medieval castles, cliff-hugging villages, and prehistoric painted caves.
Outdoor lovers can hike through forest trails, bike along rivers, or rent a boat to explore.
History buffs will want to tour UNESCO World Heritage sites like the fortified town of Rocamadour and the famous Gouffre de Padirac chasm.
Other top places to visit include the riverside town of Saint-Cyprien with its half-timbered houses and Sarlat – a well-preserved medieval town ideal for strolling.
End your days relaxing in the region’s cozy vineyards producing Bergerac and Pécharmant wines.
The Loire Valley
Stretching southward from Orléans to Angers, the Loire Valley is known as the “Garden of France” with its rolling green hills dotted with elegant châteaux.
Some of the most magnificent castles to tour include Chambord with its iconic twin-tower facade, Chenonceau sitting elegantly atop an arched bridge over the Cher River, and Azay-le-Rideau‘s beautiful reflections in its surrounding moat.
Other highlights include the fortified city of Chinon, famous as Joan of Arc’s headquarters, medieval Amboise, clinging to cliffs above the Loire; and tranquil Chaumont-sur-Loire, surrounded by seasonal gardens.
Plan to spend a few days exploring this charming region’s attractive landscape and rich royal history.
Normandy
Normandy’s rugged coastline and apple orchards have captivated visitors for centuries.
Pay your respects at the D-Day landing beaches and war memorials along the rugged Côte Fleurie coast before wandering Bayeux‘s atmospheric tapestry museum.
Foodies will love sampling cheeses, ciders, and pastries in Honfleur, one of France’s most beautiful port towns.
History and nature buffs can explore the fortified Mont-Saint-Michel island during low tide, or spend the afternoon hiking through the lush forest scenery near charming villages like Giverny, home to Monet’s water lily gardens.
For beach relaxation, head to vibrant Deauville or postcard-perfect Étretat, where limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the sea.
Alsace
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Germany, Alsace boasts a blend of French and German influences due to its turbulent history.
Stroll through Colmar’s cobbled streets lined with colorful half-timbered houses and Renaissance buildings.
Wander through medieval fortified towns such as Ribeauvillé and Kaysersberg located along the scenic Alsace Wine Route. Foodies will love indulging in local specialties like choucroute, flammekueche, and crisp white wines in the region’s cozy wine caves and charming cafes.
Outdoor lovers can stretch their legs hiking through protected natural areas carpeted with beautiful fall foliage near mountains like the Vosges.
Alsace seamlessly blends medieval charm with relaxed German culture, making it a truly memorable destination.
Bordeaux and Its Vineyards
Nestled along the banks of the Garonne River in southwest France, Bordeaux produces some of the world’s finest wines.
Spend your days touring grand châteaux with their rolling vineyards stretching into the distance.
Don’t miss elegant wine estates like Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Mouton Rothschild, with their magnificent gardens.
Stop for a tasting or two at caves selling highly coveted Medoc wines.
For history and architecture, explore the charming bastide town of Saint-Émilion, perched on a limestone plateau above the Dordogne River.
Oenophiles will be in heaven touring the beautiful vineyards dotting this region famous for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes.
The French Alps
The French Alps offer jaw-dropping mountain scenery and adventures each season.
In winter, world-class ski resorts like Chamonix, Courchevel, and Méribel draw crowds with their snowy peaks.
Summer visitors can hike mountain trails with views of glacial lakes, rock climb famous cliffs, or mountain bike through charming mountain hamlets.
Other top places to visit include the quaint spa town of Evian with its belle époque buildings, Annecy with its crystal-clear turquoise lake and canals, and scenic Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc, the gateway to epic hikes through wildflower-dotted valleys.
Whatever the season, the French Alps take your breath away with their astounding natural beauty.
Languedoc-Roussillon
Located in southern France along the Mediterranean coast, Languedoc-Roussillon should be on every adventurer’s list of destinations in France.
Explore dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and windswept beaches along the Côte Vermeille near Collioure.
History buffs can visit medieval abbeys like Le Thoronet or the fortified village of Carcassonne, among Europe’s largest and best-preserved medieval cities.
Inland, discover amazing outdoor opportunities in the Parc National des Pyrénées, like hiking, cycling, and rock climbing.
Vineyard-covered hillsides dot the landscapes in zones like Minervois known for rich red and rose wines.
Food lovers will also delight in seafood-centric fare and cassoulet.
This diverse region offers wonderful scenery, culture, and activities along France’s south coast.
Plan Your Trip to France
Whether you want to spend a week island-hopping along the Riviera, two weeks exploring iconic cities and countryside, or a month experiencing multiple regions, France offers endless possibilities
Be sure to purchase train tickets or rent a car in advance, as transportation options throughout the expansive country can fill up, especially in summer.
Look into hotel and reservation policies, as areas like Paris in particular book up quickly.
Download translation apps, pack layers as the weather can change suddenly, and remember that in rural areas, some sites or restaurants may close one or two days per week.
With its varied terrains, world-class cities, and centuries of rich history, France truly has something for everyone. Get inspired and start planning your unforgettable journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in France?
The best places to visit in France are diverse, ranging from beautiful villages in Provence and Brittany to the stunning French Riviera.
Other notable destinations include Paris with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the picturesque Loire Valley with its magnificent chateaux, and the historic Normandy region known for the D-Day landing beaches.
What are the top beach destinations in France?
France boasts a diverse range of beautiful beaches, including those along the Cote d’Azur, such as Cannes, and the stunning coastal landscapes of Corsica.
Additionally, the Dune du Pilat, near Bordeaux, offers a unique beach experience with its immense dunes.
What are the must-visit vineyard regions in France?
For wine enthusiasts, exploring the vineyards in Bordeaux, Alsace, and the French Alps is a must. These regions are known for producing some of the finest wines in the world.
Which hilltop villages should I visit in France?
France is dotted with charming hilltop villages, including Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Gordes, and Rocamadour, each offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.
What are the iconic landmarks and historical sites in France?
From the grandeur of Mont Saint-Michel to the historic Strasbourg Cathedral and the magnificent Chateau de Chambord in the Loire Valley, France is home to numerous iconic landmarks and historical sites that showcase its rich heritage.
Where can I find the best food in France?
While outstanding cuisine can be found throughout France, some regions stand out as true culinary destinations:
- Lyon: Often called the “Gastronomic Capital of France,” Lyon boasts a strong Bouchon tradition of hearty food.
Don’t miss dishes like quenelles, roast pork, and local Beaujolais wines. - Provence: Light, Mediterranean-inspired dishes use local ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes, basil, lavender, and herbs de Provence. Great spots for ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and rustic charcuterie.
- Burgundy: Renowned for beef bourguignon, escargots, and bœuf à la mode stew.
Pair with prestigious Pinot Noirs or Chablis from the region’s many vineyards. - Bordeaux: Rich pork and duck confit-based dishes complement prized red wines like Pauillac, Saint-Emilion, and Pomerol.
Top restaurants focus on fruits of the sea as well. - Basque Country: Spanish influences shine through in tapas-style pintxos skewers, seasonal seafood, and cassoulet-like pil-pil stew. Wash it down with local cider.
- Alsace: Flavorful cuisine pairs Germanic and French styles like choucroute sausage, lentils, and cinnamon-spiced kougelhopf cake with delicate Rieslings.
- Brittany: Fresh seafood like crevettes, moules, langoustines, and sorbet dominate. Look for market crêperies and coastal restaurants.
Conclusion
In summary, some of the most beautiful and culturally rich places to visit in France include:
- The French Riviera with its azure waters and picturesque hilltop towns
- Paris, the elegant capital with iconic landmarks and world-class art
- Provence’s lavender-covered hillsides and charming villages like Avignon, Gordes and Aix-en-Provence
- The Loire Valley’s elegant castles along the Loire River like Chambord and Chenonceau
- Normandy’s rugged coastal cliffs, pretty harbor towns, and iconic World War II memorial sites
- Alsace with its storybook villages, half-timbered houses, and crisp local wines along the scenic Wine Route
- Bordeaux and its iconic vineyards and wine estates producing renowned reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
- The French Alps’ dramatic snow-capped peaks are ideal for skiing in winter and hiking in summer
- The Languedoc-Roussillon region’s dramatic coastline, island villages, and the famous fortified city of Carcassonne
- Historic destinations along The Canal du Midi waterway connecting the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts
When planning your dream trip to France, be sure to allow enough time to truly savor the culture, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.
Slow down to take in the rustic charm of villages, cozy cafes and scenic vistas that make these regions so special.
By focusing your trip around 2-3 areas, you can discover hidden gems off the beaten path too.
With high-speed trains connecting major cities, it’s easy to blend iconic destinations with more rural discoveries.
No matter where in beautiful France you venture, you’re sure to make unforgettable memories in one of the most alluring countries in Europe.
Bon voyage!
