France, the most visited tourist destination in Europe, is much more than just Paris and Versailles. If it is your first time in France, sure you’d visit these two first, but the experienced travelers like to go sites far beyond.
From the endless fields of Lavenders, to the gorgeous coastlines of Cote d’azur, from the chateaux of Loire valley to the old world charm of Colmar, there is a France beyond Paris, waiting for you to explore.
Here in this blog post are some ideas for you, the best cities to visit in France:
Mount Saint Michael
Located in the beautiful Normandy region is the stunning pilgrimage site of Mount Saint Michael.
The construction of this stunning Abbey begin in the 11th century and was completed by the 13th.
Its location on top of a small hill on an island just off the coast makes it a must-visit attraction in France.
It’s another worldly experience to feel its electrifying energy during concerts and religious services. To get there from the coast you can either use the bridge or walk across the sea during the low tide.
Corsica
Located just off the coast of Nice and Cannes is the island of Corsica known for its natural beauty.
While there enjoy the relaxing beaches, lively fishing ports, and the old villages still adhering to their true tradition.
Toulouse
Another one of best cities to visit in the France is the beautiful Toulouse.
The history of the charming city of Toulouse goes as far as back the 13th century. The place is popularly known as the pink city because of the red brick buildings that are found here.
Fun fact: Another city which is called pink city is Jaipur in India.
One of the most important sites to see in the city is Basilique Saint-Sernin which is also a UNESCO heritage site.
Relaxing in the outdoor cafes by the canal and cycling and walking along are some of the most popular activities to do here.
The canal runs through the city and finally drains into the Mediterranean Sea.
Dijon
Located in the historic region of burgundy is the famous town called Dijon. Known all over France for its production of mustard, taking pictures of the small shops selling mustard is a great way to pass the quality time.
In its town center, you will find elegant mansions belonging to the Dukes of burgundy, and for the same reason, it is included in the UNESCO World Heritage site list.
Ducal palace is the highlight of any visit to burgundy, this 15th-century building is as grand as the Versailles.
With so much to offer, it is easy to see why Dijon is one of the best cities to visit in France!
Cannes
One of the best cities to visit in France, Cannes is located in the French Riviera.
Known for hosting the famous Cannes Film Festival, this small town has a lot more to offer.
From gourmet restaurants to high-end hotels, Nice has all the luxuries. provided you can afford one!
Colmar
Another one of best cities to visit in the France is the historic town of Colmar.
The charming town of Colmar, with its not narrow cobblestone alleys, exudes an old-world charm that is hard to find elsewhere in France.
Wandering through its medieval quarters, you will feel as if you have been transported back in time. In the olden times, Colmar was known as a marketplace and a destination for learning.
If you are interested in seeing some extraordinary artworks from medieval times visit the Unterlinden. Inside the rustic building of the museum, you will find several noteworthy pieces of art.
Modern art enthusiasts will find the museum’s collection of Picasso, Monet, and Bernard interesting.
Reims
One of the best cities to visit in France, Reims is a perfect opportunity to get awy from the crowds.
The small town town of Rouen boasts of hosting not one but three UNESCO World Heritage sites! The stunning Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims is the place of coronation of several French kings.
History buffs would be interested in knowing that this is the very place where Joan of Arc came along Charles VII to escort him for the coronation ceremony.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, a high gothic masterpiece, was built in the early 13th century. Other attractions in Reims include the archbishop’s palace and basilica Saint Remi.
Saint Tropez
One of the best cities to visit in France, among the beachgoers, is the little place called Saint Tropez.
The city is known for its fantastic beaches and luxurious beach resorts.
Loire valley
The beautiful lush green forested area is dotted with stunning Castles and Chateau. The whole area is a UNESCO heritage site, and once was a favorite destination of French kings during summer. One of the popular châteaux includes Château of the Dukes of Brittany.
Lourdes
Lourdes is a pretty little town located in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains.
The town is visited by millions of people every year because of its importance as a Catholic pilgrimage destination. These visitors hope for all sorts of cures, Probably because the city is claimed to have 70 validated miracles!
Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes is the most important pilgrimage site in the town.
The best time to visit the town is during the annual procession when you can see people March with candles in their hands.
One of the best cities to visit in France, Lourdes will help you have a relaxed time.
Bordeaux
A hot favorite of food and wine travellers, Aalborg is one of the best cities to visit in France.
Listed in UNESCO as a World Heritage site the French town of Bordeaux is also known as the ‘port of the moon’.
In central Bordeaux, you will find the historic cathedral of Saint Andrew with its origin in the 12th century.
On the facade of the cathedral, you will find sculptures describing Christ’s majesty, the ascension, and the Last Supper.
If you are there in summer, the time you visit to attend the Bordeaux international organ festival. The fantastic acoustics of the cathedral make this a heavenly experience.
On the other side of the cathedral is the magnificent town hall. Built in neoclassical style, it dates back to the 18th century.
The city has numerous other historical buildings impossible to see them all if you are in for a very short visit.
Strasbourg
One of the most visited cultural destinations in France, Strasbourg boasts hundreds of years of history. Many visitors come to the city to see the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg located in the town center.
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, it is highlighted by red sandstone and 142 metre high spire.
A must-do activity in Strasbourg is taking it through its old quarter, getting lost in its narrow alleys and tranquil canals.
Paris
One of the most visited tourist destination not just in Europe but in the whole world, Paris is the grand historic city of France.
There are plenty of things to do in Paris. Paris has some of the best museums in the world as well as the most iconic monuments that can be seen anywhere. The best museums in Paris include Louvre, d’Orsay, and l’Orangerie.
The Boulevards of modern Paris, such as Avenue des Champs-Élysées, are littered with top fashion brands. Shop to your heart’s content or till your wallet allows!
Not only within the city there are plenty of things to see near Paris as well. One of the best day trips near Paris is Versailles palace. An opulent palace from the 17th century which has no parallel anywhere in the world.
Enjoy your walk through the magnificent hall of mirrors, be jealous of the royal apartments, and marvel at the grand baroque facade of the palace.
Paris is one of best cities to visit in the France, and there are no two ways about it!
The Côte d’Azur
Located along the endless Mediterranean coastline is the French Riviera or Côte d’Azur. The whole region is filled with a range of choices of best cities to visit in France.
Winters and summers here are quite busy as luxury boats pile up on the course, but it is the season of spring and autumn which is more relaxed and less busy.
Visit one of the many art museums in the city of Nice, spend your afternoons in the cafes by the sea and walk on the cobblestone streets o the Old Town.
Provence
When you say Mediterranean France the first thing that comes to mind is the beautiful French region of Provence.
The countryside, the beds of flowers, and the ever-present sunshine make Provence an alluring destination in France.
During your escape to Provence, you will find small medieval towns seemingly untouched from the outside world. Cassis and Aix-en-Provence are two such picture-perfect hot favorites among travels to France.
And if you want to add some sun and sand to your itinerary head to Saint Tropez.