The Top 14 Places to Visit in France

Who hasn’t heard the famous Audrey Hepburn quote, “Paris is always a good idea”? Well, let’s go a bit further with this and say France, as a whole, is a very good idea. The country is brimming with incredible destinations to discover, from the Flemish Lille in the north to the sulfurous Marseille on the Mediterranean coast. So, if you plan on traveling to France this summer, indulge your wanderlust by checking out our list for insights and discover the best places to visit in France.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is the capital of wine, and therefore the ideal place if you wish to experience a great wine-tasting experience. Located in the Aquitaine region, in southwestern France, the city is full of bars à vin, especially Rue Parlement Saint-Pierre where you can treat yourself to the different varieties of this national beverage. But before that, take a stroll on the banks of the Garonne river, dip your feet in the Miroir d’Eau at Place de la Bourse, and make way your way up the Pey-Berland Tower where you can overlook the city’s little houses that are reminiscent of Legos before stopping by Baillardran to have delicious canelés.

Pont de pierre at sunset in Bordeaux, France | © Oscity/Shutterstock

Lille

Very close to the Belgian border, Lille is an enchanting city in northern France, and is famous for the Grande Braderie de Lille, which takes place in September when street markets line the city for 48 hours. Lille is the best city to visit if you are fond of delicacies such as waffles, mussels and French fries. After a hearty meal, roam the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, one of France’s largest fine arts museum, and get lost among the masterpieces.

Place General de Gaulle in Lille, France | © jorisvo / Shutterstock

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is located near the German border, which explains why its Christmas market is said to be one of the most authentic ones. You won’t have to wait until December, however, to enjoy this city, as there is plenty to do. Enjoy a picnic when the sun is out in spring at the Parc de l’Orangerie, savoring some copious choucroute (fermented cabbage) in winter, visiting European institutions and rushing to the top of the cathedral to enjoy one of the most awe-inspiring views of the city.

Strasbourg | © HashinLyon/Pixabay

Nice

Nice, located on the Côte d’Azur, is home to the Promenade des Anglais and has some of the best pebble beaches in France, where you can enjoy the sun before taking a dip in the sea. Also, when in Nice, do not miss the charming St Jean Cap Ferrat, where you can hang at the beach as well as visit historical monuments.

Aerial view city of Nice, France | © MarinaDa/Shutterstock

Toulouse

Also known as Ville Rose (the Pink City), Toulouse is a city popular with students. You’ll find them gathered on one of the many squares the city has, having a drink and chatting away. The Place du Capitole is the city’s most famous and impressive square, located at the heart of the city. From there, you can take one of the many streets that jut out from the square and continue exploring. To add a serene touch to your stay, you could visit the relaxing Japanese garden close to the Congress center.

The Pont Neuf in Toulouse, France | © SergiyN/Shutterstock

Saint-Malo

Located in Brittany, this fortress city was first built upon a rocky island. There, you’ll have to chance to taste Breton delicacies such as sweet or savory crêpes or kouign-amanns, which are round crusty cakes made with bread dough containing sugary layers of butter. Once in Saint-Malo, don’t miss the opportunity to take a ferry to Dinard, a neighborhood city where the atmosphere is quite different. Also, the view of Saint-Malo from the boat is the best you could have to understand the city structure better.

Saint-Malo in Brittany, France | © Antoine2K / Shutterstock

Annecy

It’s no wonder this destination is also called “the pearl of French Alps” or “Venice of the Alps‘”(yes, there are canals that criss-cross the town) Annecy may not be the first city you think of when you think of France, but this hidden gem will not disappoint you. Mostly famous for its lake that is full of tourists in the summertime, this idyllic town has plenty of attractions to keep you busy; for instance, do not miss out on the Château d’Annecy that towers over the town.

Riquewihr

Who can resist such a charming village squeezed in the east of France. They say it’s the very village that inspired the setting for Beauty and the Beast (1991). Wander down the many alleys among the half-timbered houses from the 15th and 18th centuries, and let your eyes be amazed by the colors surrounding you. Legend has it that in the past, shops in Riquewihr had to be painted differently according to your profession (baker, seamstress, butcher, and so on).

Colmar

Only seven miles away from Riquewihr, you’ll find the lovely Colmar. One of the best times to visit this little town is in December, for its Christmas vibes. Like Strasbourg, its Christmas market is very traditional and authentic. However, if you’re not fond of cold weather, spending spring or summer in this fairytale village can also be very magical. Don’t forget to stop by the Maison des Têtes (House of Heads), a very peculiar creation built in German Renaissance style.

Chamonix

It’s hot chocolat

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