best places to visit in france outside paris

12 Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris (Plus Map!)

When it comes to picking the best places to visit in France , there are many to choose from. Besides Paris, France is home to many regions to love and well worth exploring.

As a French-American, I have spent most of my life visiting France. I love it there and what I love most is how diverse France is. It is so much more than the big city of Paris (still well worth a visit.). I have a few favorite places that I recommend to everyone to visit in France.

And if I may say one thing — if you go all the way to France, do try to get outside of Paris. There is so much that awaits outside of the capital city.

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When it comes to planning your time in France, you’ll likely fly into Paris’s CDG airport. It’s a great way to kick off a trip exploring the “quartiers” of Paris, and enjoying the food, shopping, and museums. And now after, it’s time to get out and explore.

From countryside escapes to seaside shores, there is so much more to explore besides Paris. Read on to see the best places to visit in France that are beyond Paris. I hope this list gives you a few ideas on just where to go.

Best Places to Visit in France Besides Paris

A helpful map for where to go in france.

I put together a Google Map for all of my favorite places in France to visit. It’s separated by regions first with the orange pins. Then the blue pins are all places you could consider visiting in those regions. Open the maps to be able to fully explore.

Bordeaux is a renowned wine-producing region located in southwestern France, known for its exceptional vineyards and winemaking tradition. It’s literally surrounded by hundreds of vineyards and wineries in the region. What most people think of is the city of Bordeaux itself!

Bordeaux is a historic and beautiful city, with so many fun day trips nearby to places like Saint Emilion . It is the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and is situated along the River Garonne. The city is known for its beautiful 18th-century architecture, including neoclassical buildings, grand boulevards, and picturesque squares.

I’ve had the chance to spend extended time in Bordeaux when we lived there for six weeks last year. I absolutely love how walkable this city in France is and the ease of using the metro line. There are so many fun things to do in Bordeaux , lovely coffee shops , and incredible dining. And don’t miss these best hotels in Bordeaux for a stay.

If you’re coming from Paris, you’re also in luck — there is a super fast train that is directly right into the city center. Bordeaux is one of my first recommendations for those wanting to get out of Paris, no car is needed.

Popular Places to Visit in the Bordeaux Region:

• Bordeaux City
• Saint Emilion
• Soulac Sur Mer
• The Medoc Wine Region

The Alsace region is located in northeastern France, bordering Germany to the east. It is known for its picturesque villages, charming architecture, and distinctive culture, which bears the influence of both French and German traditions. All of this is due to its historical frontier position on the Franco-German border.

This may be one of my top areas of France to explore year-round. Alsace is home to two very well-known cities, both Strasbourg and Colmar. These Alsatian towns, near incredible vineyards, have lovely historic centers to explore. You can also take a direct train to Strasbourg from Paris which I always recommend using as a homebase for this region. (Here are the best hotels in Strasbourg. )

Come late November to December, this whole region is iconic for its Christmas Markets. The Strasbourg Christmas Market is the most famous, followed by the Colmar Christmas Market . It’s a bucket list experience in France!

The rest of the year is equally lovely. You could rent a car as well and get into the smaller towns of Alsace like Riquewihr, Obernai, and Kayserberg. But for ease, the direct to Strasbourg is from Paris.

Popular Places to Visit in the Alsace Region:

The dordogne and the lot.

The Dordogne, also known as the Périgord, is a picturesque region located in the southwest of France. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, historic villages, prehistoric sites, and rich culinary traditions. The Dordogne region boasts diverse landscapes, including rolling countryside, lush river valleys, limestone cliffs, and dense forests.

The Lot is a department in the Occitanie region of southern France, known for its stunning natural landscapes, picturesque medieval villages with timbered houses, and rich history. It borders right next to Dordogne and you can easily visit both on a trip.

I’m partial to this area, my grandmother was raised in The Lot so I’ve spent many trips back visiting this area. But my absolute favorite is being in the heart of the Dordogne Valley near Sarlat-la-Canéda . It is truly one of the most beautiful regions of France that American tourists completely skip over.

The amount of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (which literally translates to “the most beautiful villages of France”) here is incredible. There are chateaux, incredible dining, and a lot to visit in day trip form like these 7 villages of Dordogne . It honestly feels like a fairy tale.

The caveat with this region is you do need a car to get around. The easiest access is to train directly to Bordeaux and rent a car from there to explore the region.

Popular Places to Visit in the Dordogne Region:

• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• Beynac-et-Cazenac
• La Roque-Gageac

Popular Places to Visit in the Lot Region:

• Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Provence, situated in southeastern France, lies in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur department of France. Often when people think of Provence, they’re mostly thinking of areas like the hilltop villages of the Luberon, the French city of Aix-en-Provence, and nearby countryside towns of Avignon and Arles.

Provence is ever-so-lovely to visit, with each season having a unique experience. The spring through fall months are the best times to visit, where lavender fields bloom and the area becomes very lush. This part of France is known for historical towns, the best farmer’s markets, and historic sights.

When we go, I love to use Saint-Rémy-de-Provence as a home base, there are some lovely hotels here . From there you can easily take a drive to Luberon to visit famous villages like Gordes, Roussillon and more. Having a rental car here is a must to get out to see these areas!

One quintessential part of being in Provence is taking part in famed regional gastronomic dining. So be sure to hunt out a few restaurants beforehand. These charming countryside hotels in Provence all have wonderful stays plus many have restaurants right on the property.

For those wanting to make it out to the Provincial coastline, make your way to the small town of Cassis . Just next to Marseille, Cassis might be my favorite coastal town on the Mediterranean. Super quaint, great beaches and hiking , and lovely restaurants to enjoy here!

Popular Places to Visit in Provence:

• The Luberon (Gordes, Ménerbes, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Roussillon, Oppède, Lourmarin)
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
• Aix-en-Provence

Normandy, situated in northwestern France, is a region of profound historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its pivotal role in the D-Day landings during World War II, the region’s beaches like Omaha and Utah Beach stand as solemn reminders of the Allied invasion.

Normandy’s landscapes are equally diverse, with rolling green countryside, coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque apple orchards. Historic towns such as Rouen, Honfleur, and Bayeux offer glimpses into the region’s rich architectural heritage, featuring medieval and Renaissance buildings and towering Gothic cathedrals.

The iconic Mont Saint-Michel, perched on a rocky island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of medieval architecture. Normandy is celebrated for its culinary traditions, including creamy cheeses like Camembert, apple-based products such as cider and Calvados, and fresh seafood from coastal towns.

It has also inspired Impressionist painters like Monet, with Giverny serving as a testament to the region’s artistic allure. Seaside resorts, Calvados and cider routes, festivals, and peaceful countryside make Normandy a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of northern France.

Popular Places to Visit in Normandy:

• Mont Saint-Michel

One of my favorite, often overlooked, regions of France is the Languedoc . Languedoc-Rousillon, also known as Occitanie, is a captivating region in the south of France that boasts a diverse and culturally rich landscape. From its picturesque Mediterranean coastline with sandy beaches to the rugged Pyrenees Mountains in the west and the rolling vineyard-covered hills of its interior.

Steeped in history, the region features medieval treasures like the walled city of Carcassonne, and it played a significant role in the Cathar movement during the Middle Ages. Carcassonne is an absolute treasure to not miss while in this region.

Languedoc is also renowned for its wine production, with vineyards producing a wide array of wines. Its cultural heritage, celebrated through festivals, music, and the Occitan language, adds depth to the region’s charm, making it a captivating destination for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking a taste of Mediterranean culture.

Languedoc sits right next to Provence, so if you’re looking for something a bit more quiet, this is another option to consider. It’s quieter here, more rugged, but very much worth the visit.

Popular Places to Visit in Languedoc:

• Carcassonne
• Montpellier
• Canal du Midi

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, nestled in the heart of France, is a region of unparalleled beauty and historical significance. It is renowned for its magnificent châteaux, each a testament to different periods of architecture, and its lush vineyards producing some of the country’s finest wines.

The Loire River stands as France’s final untouched waterway, stretching for 1000 miles and winding through nature’s unspoiled landscapes. Along the way, scenic towns, castles, and wineries are here to enjoy.

My family is from Poitiers just south of the Loire Valley. We’ve spent many day trips visiting up into this fairytale land to explore. So many wonderful fortified towns like Chinon and Amboise which you can also easily visit by way of Paris.

In the Loire Valley, you can’t miss impressive castles like Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, Château de Villandry, Château de Azay-le-Rideau, and Château de Amboise are a must-see.

From Paris, I’d rent a car or train into Tours and grab a car there to start a road trip in this area. Public transport is more limited so a car is needed to explore.

Popular Places to Visit in The Loire Valley:

French riviera.

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a captivating stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea in southeastern France. Renowned for its glamour and natural beauty, the French Riviera has stunning azure waters, sun-kissed beaches, and a Mediterranean climate.

The region encompasses glamorous cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, where upscale resorts, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife are well known. The smaller towns of Èze, Saint-Tropez, Antibes, Menton, and Villefranche-Sur-Mer are also well worth a visit.

Beyond the coastal towns, the French Riviera offers picturesque vineyards and scenic hikes in the Alpes-Maritimes. Bucketlist towns like Saint Paul de Vence should not be overlooked when down in this area.

With its combination of cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of luxury, the French Riviera remains a timeless destination. This is probably the most visited area of France after Paris, so try to time your travels for late spring or early fall to skip the crowds!

If you’re coming from Paris, one recommendation is to consider flying to Nice Airport. It’s much quicker and from there you can access most of the coastline by train.

Popular Places to Visit in The French Riviera:

• Villefranche-Sur-Mer
• Saint Paul de Vence

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France is a blend of incredible landscapes, historical cities, and gastronomy. It encompasses a wide array of landscapes, from the majestic French Alps with world-class ski resorts to the idyllic vineyards of the Rhône Valley. The region’s cities, including Lyon (the largest city in this area), Grenoble, and Annecy, offer a vibrant mix of art, culture, and gastronomy, with Lyon being particularly renowned for its culinary excellence.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes also boasts historic towns, such as Vichy and Chambéry, along with numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, making it really great for both adventure seekers and those looking to immerse themselves in the heart of French culture. This area is home to many of the alp destinations of France, like Mont Blanc.

I’m a big fan of this region, mostly because one of my favorite places to visit outside of Paris is here. Annecy, France , in the Haute-Savoie part of this region. It’s one of the most magical places in France to visit, where cobbled streets and winding canals lead to the turquoise-colored lake. With so many things to do in Annecy , I always recommend booking at least 3 nights in a local hotel .

The food here is incredible, very rich, with dishes like raclette and tartiflette. It’s also not very far from Lyon , so you could easily visit both at the same time.

Popular Places to Visit in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region:

• Aix-les-Bains
• Côtes du Rhône

Burgundy, situated in east-central France, is a region that has cultural and gastronomic significance. It is internationally acclaimed for its exceptional wines, with vineyards gracing its picturesque landscapes. The region’s historic treasures include magnificent châteaux and abbeys, such as the Hospices de Beaune and Château de Vougeot, offering glimpses into Burgundy’s rich past.

The cities of Dijon and Beaune showcase well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, while the capital, Dijon, has a vibrant cultural scene. Iconic French dishes like coq au vin and escargot all originate from this region!

You can really visit this region in a few different ways, but most visitors start in Dijon. From there, you can do several day trips depending on how much time you have.

Popular Places to Visit in the Burgundy Region:

• Canal de Bourgogne
• Pays d’Auxois
• Chalon-sur-Saône

Champagne in northeastern France, is the birthplace of the world’s most iconic sparkling wine, Champagne. The cities of Reims and Epernay serve as gateways to this wine lover’s paradise, housing renowned Champagne houses where visitors can explore historic cellars and savor the effervescent nectar.

The region is steeped in history, with the impressive Cathedral of Reims as a symbol of its past significance. Picturesque vineyards, charming villages like Hautvillers and Aÿ, and scenic routes offer glimpses of its countryside charm. Beyond its wine culture, Champagne’s natural beauty, from the Marne River to the Montagne de Reims Natural Park, adds to the region’s allure.

If you’re in Paris, taking the train to Reims is one of the easiest trips to make. The direct train is around 1.5 hours, and Reims itself is a vibrant city to visit. Reims serves as a great base for day trips to other charming towns and villages in the Champagne region, including Epernay, Châlons-en-Champagne, and the vineyard-covered hillsides of the region.

Popular Places to Visit in the Champagne Region:

• Châlons-en-Champagne
• Hautvillers

French Basque Country

French Basque Country is one of my favorite parts of France. We grew up going as kids to Biarritz to see family, and I have some of my fondest memories here. In the southwestern corner of France, it’s a captivating region renowned for its distinct cultural identity and traditions.

Here, Basque culture is vibrantly celebrated, from the use of the Basque language, Euskara, to lively music, dances, and traditional sports like pelota. Coastal gems like Biarritz, with its beautiful beaches and surf culture, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, known for its charming bay and seafood cuisine. The historic city of Bayonne has incredibly well-preserved architecture and annual Fetes de Bayonne festivities.

Inland, Espelette’s red peppers are an icon to the region’s cuisine, while those who want to be outdoors can explore the Pyrenees mountains and the Atlantic coast. This region truly has it all.

I think a proper week or two would do to visit this area if you want to explore all corners of it. For sans a car, I’d take the train from Paris into Biarritz and enjoy one of my favorite Atlantic beach towns in France.

Popular Places to Visit in the French Basque Country:

• Saint-Jean-de-Luz

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Dordogne

The 7 Most Beautiful Villages in Alsace, France to Visit

The 18 Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower Views

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8 Easy day trips from Paris (to other countries in Europe)

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: June 9, 2023

Categories Day trips from Paris , Europe , Paris

Home » 8 Easy day trips from Paris (to other countries in Europe)

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Paris is a great city for a quick getaway, but it’s also the perfect jumping-off point for making a couple day trips from Paris to another country.

After trying all of Paris’ best brunch restaurants , seeing the Eiffel Tower and its other famous landmarks, and sipping your way through all the best speakeasies in Paris – what else is there to do?

Take a day trip of course!

Typical day trips from Paris include trips to Monet’s House in Giverny , the Palace of Versailles, or a day trip tour of the Champagne region of France . But you can easily spend a day in one of France’s neighboring countries!

Located in such a convenient location in Western Europe, France borders several other countries that can be reached in just a few hours by train or car, including Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.

This makes Paris one of the best places to base yourself if you want to explore several different countries on a single trip.

Not only that, but Paris is also home to two international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, which makes it easy to get in and out of the city for day trips!

P.S. Check out this article for my top picks for the best airlines to fly to Paris from the U.S. (and Europe!)

If you’re looking for some ideas for day trips from Paris, I’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re looking to explore a new culture or simply see some new scenery, there are a number of different countries that you can easily visit for a day trip from Paris .

If you’re visiting Paris and looking for something to do outside of the city, consider taking a day trip to one of these nearby countries.

This 10-page Paris travel guide includes all the best foods to eat in Paris, where to eat, the top things to do and see in Paris, including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more. Find out the best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area. Links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!

Best countries to visit from Paris for the day

The first country on our list is Belgium. Just a short train ride from Paris, Belgium is known for its delicious food, interesting history, and beautiful architecture. While in Belgium, be sure to visit the capital city of Brussels and try some of the country’s famous chocolate.

The next country on our list is Luxembourg. This small country is located just a few hours from Paris by train and makes for a great day trip. While in Luxembourg, be sure to visit the capital city of Luxembourg City and explore its many castles and museums.

The third country on our list is England. Though it may take a bit longer to get there from Paris, England makes for a great day trip or even a weekend getaway. While in England, be sure to visit the capital city of London and explore its many sights, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London.

The Netherlands

Last but not least on our list is the Netherlands. The Netherlands is located just a short train ride from Paris and is known for its windmills, tulips, and canals. While in the Netherlands, be sure to visit Amsterdam, the capital city, and explore its many museums and art galleries.

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8 best day trips from Paris to other countries

1. bruges, belgium.

Just a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris, Bruges is the perfect day trip for those who want to explore a new city without venturing too far from home. This medieval city is known for its canals, cobbled streets, and picturesque buildings.

Distance: 2h 55m (train) · 164 miles from Paris center

How to get to Bruges:

Getting to Bruges from Paris is easy! Simply take the Thalys train from Paris Gare du Nord to Bruges.

The journey takes about 3 hours and trains depart several times a day. Tickets for the Paris to Bruges train will run you around €60 for a one-way trip.

Flixbus offers a budget-friendly bus service from Paris to Bruges starting at just €17.99 for a one-way ticket. The journey takes around 5 hours, so it’s not the quickest option, but it is the most affordable.

What to do in Bruges:

• Visit the Markt square and buy some local produce
• Take a tour of the Choc-Story Chocolate museum
• Wander around the medieval city center and admire the architecture
• Learn how to cook at a Belgian Waffle making workshop
• Visit the Church of Our Lady, a 13th-century Gothic church with a tower that offers views of the city
• Take a boat cruise through one of Bruges’ many canals
• Explore the Freitmuseum (Museum of Fries)
• Go beer tasting at a local brewery

Want to stay a few days?

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Bruges here 👇

2. Brussels, Belgium

Located just a short train ride away from Paris, Brussels is the perfect destination for a day trip.

The city is home to many historical sights and cultural attractions, including the Grand Place, Manne. Brussels is also known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some of the local specialties like Belgian chocolate and waffles.

Distance: 2h 55m (train) · 160 miles from Paris center

How to get to Brussels from Paris:

The easiest way to get to Brussels from Paris is by train. Take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels-Midi station.

You can find cheap train tickets to Brussels from Paris on Omio here .

You can also reach Paris by bus or car, but the journey will take longer.

FlixBus is a good option for bus travel between the two cities, as they usually have multiple departures per day from Paris and tickets are pretty cheap. You can find a bus ticket from Paris to Brussels for around 20-30 EUR.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 4 hours.

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay for parking in Brussels, so it’s not the most budget-friendly option!

What to do in Brussels:

There are plenty of things to do in Brussels, but some of the must-sees include:

• Drink your way through the city on a beer tasting tour of Brussels
• Visit the Grand Palace
• Join a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Brussels
• Wander around the Royal Palace of Brussels
• Visit the Free Design Museum and check out the Atomium , a steel structure that was built for Expo ’58
• Visit the Musee des Instruments de Musique, a music museum with over 8,000 instruments on display
• Create your own chocolate creations at a Belgian Chocolate Workshop
• Explore the Royal Palace of Brussels

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Brussels here 👇

3. Ghent, Belgium

Another great day trip from Paris is Ghent, Belgium. This beautiful city is located just an hour away by train and is known for its medieval architecture, canals, and cobbled streets.

Distance: 1h 10m (train) · 155 miles from Paris center

How to get to Ghent from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to Ghent is by train. You can take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels-Midi station and then transfer to a local train bound for Ghent.

The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes in total.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 3 hours. Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay for parking in Ghent, as well as highway toll fees, so be prepared to have to spend some extra money if you travel by car.

A bus ride from Paris to Ghent will cost you around 20-30 EUR and take about 5 hours, depending on traffic.

FlixBus is a good option for bus travel between the two cities.

What to do in Ghent:

Ghent is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. Some of the must-sees include:

• Visit the Gravensteen Castle for a look at medieval architecture
• Take a city highlights tour of Ghent by bike
• Learn about Ghent’s medieval history on a medieval boat cruise of the city center
• Visit the belfry of Ghent, a 14th-century bell tower that offers views of the city
• Eat your way through Ghent on a guided city food & drink tour
• Explore one of the many museums, including the Ghent City Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts
• Marvel at Flemish architecture while strolling through the Patershol district

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Ghent here 👇

4. Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp, Belgium is another great option for a day trip from Paris. This city is located just over an hour away by train and is known for its diamond industry, medieval architecture, and fashion scene.

Distance: 2h 40m (train) · 184 miles from Paris center

How to get to Antwerp from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to Antwerp is by train. You can take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels-Midi station and then transfer to a local train bound for Antwerp.

The journey takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes in total.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 3 hours and 15 minutes. Keep in mind you will also have to pay international toll fees, gasoline, and parking within the city of Antwerp.

Budget travelers can opt for a bus trip to Antwerp from Paris, which will take about 5 hours.

Tickets cost between 20-30 EUR and can be booked through FlixBus .

What to do in Antwerp:

Antwerp is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. Some of the must-sees include:

• Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, a Gothic cathedral known for its height and intricate architecture.
• Admire the graphic art of Edvard Munch, Francisco Goya, and Félicien Rops at Museum de Reede
• Explore the city on two wheels on a guided bike tour
• See zebras, penguins, and monkeys at the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world
• Take a private walking tour of Antwerp with a local guide
• See the Grote Markt, Antwerp’s main square lined with Gothic guildhalls

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Antwerp here 👇

5. London, United Kingdom

Just a few hours away by train, London makes for an easy and enjoyable day trip. London is known for its historic landmarks, shopping, and cultural diversity.

It’s a popular tourist destination due to its many attractions, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a day trip here.

Distance: 2h 20m (train) · 210 miles from Paris center

How to get to London from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to London is by train. You can take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord station directly to London St Pancras International. The journey takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Tickets for the Eurostar can be quite expensive depending on what time of year you book, so it’s best to book in advance if possible.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 6 hours.

Keep in mind that you will have to pay for international tolls, gasoline, and parking within London (which is known to be extremely costly!).

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There are also a few budget-friendly bus options available from Paris to London. The ride will take about 11 hours, so it’s obviously not ideal for a day trip but could be a good option if you plan on staying for a few days.

Bus tickets from London to Paris start at around 25 EUR and can be booked through FlixBus.

What to do in London:

London is a huge city with plenty of things to see and do. You definitely won’t be bored in this vibrant city!

• Visit Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch (See the changing of the guard ceremony if you can!)
• Join a hop-on hop-off bus tour of London to see all the major sites in one go
• Check out Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
• Explore Hogwarts on a Harry Potter tour of Warner Bros Studio
• Explore Westminster Abbey, a Gothic cathedral where many British monarchs have been crowned
• Take a sightseeing boat cruise down the River Thames
• Visit the Tower of London and see the Crown Jewels Exhibition
• Take a ride on the London Eye , a giant Ferris wheel with views of the city
• Explore Hyde Park, one of the largest parks in London
• Try a traditional English breakfast at one of London’s many restaurants

There is so much to see and do in London that you could easily spend several days here and not get bored.

P.S. Check out my full Paris to London day trip itinerary + my top London travel tips here

If you’re looking to pack a lot into one day, I recommend starting with Buckingham Palace. Then, head over to Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament before walking across Tower Bridge for some great views.

After that, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral and take a ride on the London Eye. Lastly, explore Hyde Park before grabbing a traditional English breakfast.

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in London here 👇

6. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Just a few hours from Paris by train, Luxembourg City is the perfect destination for a day trip. The city is home to many historical landmarks and museums, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Distance: 2h (train) · 177 miles from Paris center

How to get to Luxembourg City from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to Luxembourg City is by train. There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord station to Luxembourg City, and the journey takes about 2 hours.

Tickets for the train can be purchased in advance through the SNCF website or at the station.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 5 hours. You will have to pay for international tolls and gasoline, so it’s best to carpool if possible.

There is also a budget-friendly bus option available from Paris to Luxembourg City on Flixbus . The ride will take about 11 hours, so it’s obviously not ideal for a day trip but could be a good option if you plan on staying for a few days. Tickets from Paris to Luxembourg City start at around 25 EUR and can be booked through FlixBus.

What to do in Luxembourg City:

Luxembourg City is a historic and culturally rich city with plenty of things to see and do.

• Visit the Grand Ducal Palace, the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg
• Join a guided city walking and wine-tasting tour of Luxembourg
• Explore the Bock Casemates, a series of underground tunnels used as a military fortress
• Join a hop-on hop-off city line bus tour
• Walk through the picturesque Vianden Castle
• Explore the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial, a WWII cemetery with over 5,000 graves
• Visit the Mudam Contemporary Art Museum
• Take a 3-course American-themed dinner sightseeing tour in a real American school bus

There is so much to see and do in Luxembourg City that you could easily spend several days here.

If you’re looking to pack a lot into one day, I recommend starting with the Grand Ducal Palace.

Then, explore the Bock Casemates and Notre-Dame Cathedral. After that, walk through Vianden Castle and visit the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial. Lastly, visit the National Museum of History and Art.

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Luxembourg here 👇

7. Rotterdam, The Netherlands

The Netherlands’ second-largest city, Rotterdam is a bustling metropolis with plenty to see and do. It’s home to many historical landmarks and museums, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Rotterdam is a great destination for a day trip from Amsterdam or Paris!

Distance : 3h (train) · 229 miles from Paris center

How to get to Rotterdam from Paris:

Getting to Rotterdam from Paris is easy and there are multiple transportation options available.

The fastest way to get from Paris to Rotterdam is by train. There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord station to Rotterdam Central station, and the journey takes about 3 hours. Tickets for the train can be purchased in advance through the SNCF website or at the station.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 4 hours. You will have to pay for international tolls and gasoline, so it’s not the best option for those on a time crunch or those looking to save money.

Budget travelers hoping to travel to Rotterdam by car can book a carpool trip via Blablacar.

There is also a budget-friendly bus option available from Paris to Rotterdam . The ride will take about 11 hours, so it’s probably not worth it to stay for only one day if traveling by bus.

Flixbus tickets from Paris to Rotterdam start at around 25 EUR and can be booked online or on the app.

You can typically find cheap flights to The Netherlands from Paris as well, especially so when you book in advance. And getting to and from Eindhoven airport is fairly straightforward and easy to continue travel through the rest of the country.

What to do in Rotterdam:

• Enjoy the Rotterdam city skyline on a harbor boat tour
• Climb to the top of Euromast Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the city
• Visit Kinderdijk Windmill Village , a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Spend the day at Rotterdam Zoo

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Rotterdam here 👇

8. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is a popular day trip from Paris for good reason. This vibrant city is just a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris and is known for its canals, museums, and coffee shops.

Amsterdam is the perfect place to spend a day (or two!) if you’re looking to explore somewhere new.

And if you’re visiting Paris in February , you should definitely pop over to Amsterdam and check out the tulip season in all its glory.

Distance: 3h30 (train) · 265 miles from Paris center

How to get to Amsterdam from Paris:

The most common way to get from Paris to Amsterdam is by train. There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord station to Amsterdam Central station, and the journey takes about 3.5 hours.

Tickets for the train can be purchased in advance via Omio or Trainline .

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 5 hours. You will have to pay for international tolls and gasoline, as well as parking fees within Amsterdam.

Flixbus offers routes to Amsterdam and back to Paris multiple times per day starting at around 25 EUR. The journey by bus will take about 10 hours, so it’s probably not the best option for those on a time crunch.

No matter how you choose to get to Amsterdam from Paris, you’re sure to have a great time exploring this historic and vibrant city!

What to do in Amsterdam:

There is so much to see and do in Amsterdam that you could easily spend several days here.

• Explore the famous Rijksmuseum .
• Take a canal cruise or explore one of the many parks in the city
• Flock through hundreds of tulips at Keukenhof , the world’s largest flower garden
• Take a historic tour of the Anne Frank House
• See famous works of art at the Van Gogh museum
• Visit the Red Light District for a look at Amsterdam’s more risque side
• Take a cheese and wine-tasting boat cruise down the Amsterdam canals
• Learn how beer is made on a tour of the Heineken Brewery
• Munch on a variety of delicious foods at Foodhaal, an indoor food market

There is so much to see and do in Amsterdam that it can be hard to know where to start.

If you’re looking to pack a lot into one day, we recommend starting with a canal cruise. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history.

After that, explore the Red Light District, visit the Anne Frank House, and stroll through Vondelpark.

Be sure to leave time for some shopping and stops at cafes along the way!

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Amsterdam here 👇

These are just a few of the great countries that you can visit from Paris for the day. So, the next time you find yourself in the City of Light, be sure to venture out and explore some of these nearby countries.

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P.S. You can find  all my Paris travel articles, recommendations, & resources  here 👈

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Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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• France Guides
• August 14, 2022

12 France Destinations (Outside of Paris)

When most people think of France, they immediately think of Paris. While Paris is an amazing city and worth a visit, there are so many other great places to see in France! From the stunningly beautiful Bordeaux to the historic city of Lyon, there is something for everyone in this European country. Here are 12 France destinations that are worth a visit!

1. Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the architecture is stunning. There are also plenty of great restaurants and bars, as well as shops and markets.

The city is also home to some of the best wines in the world . Bordeaux is an easy city to get around, and there are plenty of things to do and see. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy some good food and wine, Bordeaux is worth a visit.

2. Marseille

Marseille is the second-largest city in France and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, Marseille has a long history as a major trading port. Today, it is known for its vibrant culture and diverse population.

Visitors to Marseille can enjoy a variety of activities to do, including exploring the city’s historic sites, visiting the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, or taking a boat ride to the nearby islands. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Marseille.

If you’re looking for a European destination that has it all, then look no further than Lyon, France. This beautiful city is located at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone Rivers and is known for its historical architecture, stunning scenery, and delicious food.

Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and art galleries, or take a stroll through one of its numerous parks. And of course, no trip to Lyon would be complete without sampling some of the city’s renowned cuisine.

From savory dishes like quenelles and coq au vin to sweet treats like marrons glacés and baba au rhum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Lyon today!

4. Toulouse

Toulouse is a beautiful city in the south of France that is often called the “pink city” because of the distinctive reddish-orange bricks used in many of its buildings. The city is home to some historical landmarks, including the Basilica of Saint Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in Europe, and the Place du Capitole, a masterful example of 18th-century architecture.

Toulouse is also known for its cuisine, with specialties like cassoulet, a hearty dish made with beans, pork, and duck. And of course, no visit to Toulouse would be complete without tasting some of the local wine! Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, Toulouse has something to offer everyone. So plan your trip today and experience all that this fascinating city has to offer!

There’s no place like Nice, France! This beautiful city is located on the French Riviera and is known for its stunning scenery, lovely weather, and fabulous food.

Visitors to Nice can enjoy plenty of activities, from exploring the Old Town to sunbathing on the beach. Plus, there are plenty of great places to eat and drink, so you can indulge in the local culture. So if you’re looking for a wonderful place to visit, be sure to add Nice, France to your list!

6. Montpellier

Montpellier is a beautiful city in the south of France that is well worth a visit. The historic center is a delight to wander, with its quaint streets and 18th-century architecture. The city also has several excellent museums, including the Musee Fabre, which houses an outstanding collection of paintings by French masters.

And of course, no visit to Montpellier would be complete without enjoying some of the fabulous food and wine for which the region is known. From Michelin-starred restaurants to atmospheric cafes and lively markets, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the very best of French cuisine.

So if you’re looking for a city that combines culture, history, and gastronomy, be sure to put Montpellier on your list.

Nantes is a beautiful city in France that is worth a visit! There is so much to see and do, from exploring the historic center to enjoying the many parks and gardens. The city is also home to a number of museums, including the Musée des beaux-arts de Nantes and the Musée d’histoire de Nantes.

Of course, no visit to Nantes would be complete without trying some of the local cuisines. The city is known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to sample some while you’re there! With so much to offer, Nantes is sure to please everyone.

Lille is a beautiful city in northern France that is well worth a visit. The city center is full of charming medieval buildings and winding cobbled streets, while the nearby Old Town is home to some museums and art galleries.

Lille is also a great place to shop, with a large selection of boutiques and shops selling everything from fashion to food. And of course, no trip to Lille would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine, which includes specialties such as potjevleesch (a type of ham and chicken pate) and waterzooi (a chicken and vegetable stew).

So if you’re looking for a city that has it all, be sure to add Lille to your list!

9. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a city located in northeastern France, right on the border with Germany. It is the capital of the Grand Est region and has a population of just over 275,000 people. The city is famous for its beautiful architecture, with many buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.

In addition, Strasbourg is home to the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, making it an important political center. Visitors to the city can explore its historic center, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site or take a cruise on the River Ill to enjoy views of the city’s landmarks.

With so much to see and do, Strasbourg is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

Rennes is the capital of Brittany, a region in northwestern France. This vibrant city is known for its lively student population, medieval architecture, and beautiful parks. There’s plenty to see and do in Rennes, from exploring the old town to strolling through the botanical gardens.

And of course, no visit to Rennes would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisines. From savory crepes to sweet cider, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city. So why not plan a visit and see for yourself what Rennes has to offer?

There’s so much to see in Reims, France! The historic city is home to beautiful architecture, including the renowned cathedral, and is also the site of several important events in French history.

Visitors can explore the many museums and galleries, or take a stroll through the picturesque streets. And of course, no visit to Reims would be complete without sampling some of the delicious Champagne that the region is famous for!

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy some good food and wine, Reims is worth a visit.

12. Le Havre

Le Havre is a bustling port city located on the northwestern coast of France. The city is home to a variety of interesting attractions, including the Cathedrale Notre Dame, the Musee des Beaux-Arts, and the Jardin Public.

Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, where they can admire the numerous boats and yachts that line the harbor. Le Havre is a lively city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for culture, relaxation, or simply a change of scenery, a visit to Le Havre is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

In conclusion

There are so many great destinations to visit in France outside of Paris! From the charming medieval city of Lille to the bustling port of Le Havre, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan a trip and explore all that France has to offer? You’re sure to create lasting memories and have a great time.

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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10 Best Places to Visit in France – Outside of Paris!

To know France is to love France.  But how do you get to know a country as intricate as France? From the German-influence infiltrating the eastern border, to the Mediterranean flavour of the French Riviera, and the idyllic islands at a tickling distance from the country’s western shores, France is as complex as it is compelling. 

And while most people who visit France land in Paris , you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you ventured no further than the world’s favourite capital.

Sure, spend a few days eyeing up the Iron Lady, sipping café noir in a quintessential curbside bistro, and learning the art of flaneur … But then drive, train or bus to another corner of l’hexagone to discover another world. One that is sure to seduce you with its intoxicating charm and universally appealing lifestyle.

I have absolutely been won over by the diverse nature of France’s landscapes, so today I’m sharing some of my recommendations for the best places to go in France, besides Paris …

Map of the top places to visit in France

France is a fairly large country (by European standards) and for the uninitiated, it can be a little tricky trying to visualise where everything is. The below map plots out our suggestions of places to see in France, so that you can get your bearings easily. Simply click on the markers to reveal each location.

Alsace is a quintessential frontier zone, part of that northern French hinterland that has changed hands between France and Germany so often over the centuries. As may be expected for a place-between-worlds, Alsace has forged its own unique culture and identity, neither totally French, nor completely German, but always, absolutely Alsatian.

This is a region with its own dialect, a rich and distinctive gastronomic culture, and an extremely long history of winemaking: people have been producing wine here since the 2 nd century. The Alsace wine route boasts more than 800 vineyards over a distance of 105 miles and offers a host of treats for lovers of viticulture.

Indeed, the oldest barrel of wine anywhere in the world may be found in a dark cellar beneath the Hospice of Strasbourg. The vintage is 1472, and it has survived the ravages of two world wars and countless fires.

Although they remain rooted in traditional winemaking, the producers of Alsace wines are also industry pioneers, and it was here that some of the first biodynamic vineyards were established.

Throughout the summer, a swathe of festivals and food markets crop up along the wine route, making Alsace an extremely attractive prospect for a summer road trip.

Yet, Alsace has so much more to offer beyond its vineyards and its hearty food culture. The Renaissance streets of Strasbourg and Colmar, with their painted timbered buildings and cobbled paving stones, offer charm in abundance, particularly at Christmas , when they are dressed in lights and filled with festive markets.

Outside the cities and towns, the luscious green landscape is the ideal place to retreat from the world. Stretching from the Rhine to the dramatic hills of the Vosges, the Alsace is a natural treasure, and there’s plenty to keep nature-lovers occupied.

What’s more, this corner of France is castle country , and there are many imposing, impressive reminders of the region’s medieval past in the ruins of Hohlandsbourg and Fleckenstein.

History looms large here, and the region is redolent with memories of the brutal wars and occupations of the 19 th and 20 th centuries. Nevertheless, despite the importance of the past in defining Alsatian culture and identity, this is a forward-looking, optimistic, and utterly unique part of France that will leave you wanting much, much more.

Explore the Alsace region  – Book your tour here

Fiercely independent, with a weighty history and a rugged charm, Normandy is often considered within France as a place apart.

This verdant region takes its name from the Viking conquerors that settled here in the 9 th century (the name itself comes from ‘north men’ in Old Norse), and although the Normans have kept their fearsome reputation, visitors will always find a warm welcome.

With gorgeous beaches , stunning architecture, and some of France’s finest seafood, this is a region with something for everyone. Norman history has always been tied to the sea, from the earliest Viking raids and the conquest of England in 1066, right through to the darkest moments of the Second World War.

Today, some of the vast, expansive beaches of the Norman coast are places of pilgrimage, preserved as a memorial to the many men who lost their lives during the D-Day landings of 1944. 

Long stretches of golden sand, bordered by undulating dunes, also offer plenty of opportunities for summer fun, and families flock here in the summer months to relax, play games and dip a toe in the Channel. The same coastline is home to an abundance of picturesque ports and fishing towns, such as the beautiful Honfleur, arguably the prettiest harbour in the whole of France. This is the place to come for fabulous, fresh seafood, all washed down with a pint of local cider.

The Norman dukes were medieval rockstars, and they left their mark in the shape of castles and cathedrals. The sublime Gothic churches of Rouen, Coutances and Caen are fitting monuments to this glorious past, as is the unique Bayeux tapestry, the first battle narrative to be told entirely in thread.

But the jewel in this region’s crown has to be Mont-Saint-Michel, the iconic abbey perched on a craggy rock high over the shimmering sands of the Couesnon estuary. It’s small wonder that artists and poets alike have found inspiration in this enchanting region; a visit to Giverny, where Monet painted his famous water lilies, is surely enough to see why.

Enjoy this stunning region by booking a day tour from Bayeux

BORDEAUX 

Rivalled only by the Champagne region, Bordeaux is one of France’s most important wine-producing provinces . Home to over 6,000 vineyards, this profuse and fertile region offers some of the world’s finest wines, building on an ancient culture that goes back nearly 2000 years.

The area around Bordeaux is best explored on foot or by bike, and this lush, sun-soaked region certainly won’t disappoint.

The city of Bordeaux is a pleasant destination for a city break, with its wide boulevards, 18th-century architecture, and riverside street culture. The city is a cultural hub, and visitors come here for the exceptional art galleries and museums, and renowned dining scene.

The River Garonne, which snakes through the town centre, has been the focal hub of the city for centuries, transporting goods in and out of the city. It offers an ideal place for an afternoon stroll, lined with attractive cafes and restaurants offering refreshments for weary travellers.

Outside the city, vineyards dominate the landscape, but Saint-Emilion, in the heart of the Bordeaux region, is an attractive spot for a day trip.

This historic medieval village was founded in the 8 th century when a pious hermit named Emilion, made his home in the nearby caves. Over time, the settlement developed into an important religious centre, and it’s possible to get a little closer to this rich history today by exploring the caves underneath the village.

Wine production has been important here ever since King John of England established the Jurade, a wine-makers brotherhood committed to developing the industry in Saint-Emilion.

Over 800 years later, Saint-Emilion still stands as one of the most important wine-producing areas in France. Whether you’re an aficionado of Bordeaux wines or not, this marvellous region has plenty to offer to visitors.

Book a day trip to Saint-Emilion from Bordeaux here.

FRENCH RIVIERA

The French Riviera – summer retreat of the jet-set – immediately conjures images of glamour, sophistication and style. During the summer months, French holidaymakers, along with an international crowd of celebrities and millionaires, flock to the Côte d’Azur, to dangle a toe in the Mediterranean and let their hair down in Monaco, Saint-Tropez , Nice or Cannes .

This is one of France’s most popular holiday destinations, and with good reason: the Côte d’Azur is truly stunning, comprising sandy beaches, vibrant markets, picturesque towns, coastal walking trails, and blazing red cliffs.

Don’t despair if your wallet doesn’t stretch to long nights on the town in the fashionable resorts of St Tropez and Antibes or the casinos of Monte Carlo. There’s more to explore here than many people realise, and this part of the French coastline is a natural paradise, filled with stunning hidden villages, nestled in the mountains that rise up from the sea.

Saint-Paul de Vence, for example, is known for its maze of labyrinthine streets, and vibrant artistic culture. This stunning village offers exceptional views of the coast and is a haven for photographers. Port Grimaud, the Venice of the Riviera, is characterised by its canals, waterways, and vibrantly painted houses.

Finally, Èze, a charming medieval village perched on a high, rocky outcrop, offers the very best of the Côte d’Azur: exotic gardens, a medieval castle, and fabulous views of the Mediterranean. All the way along the coastline, beech forests and gardens of olives cloak the hillsides, making this an excellent spot for hiking or mountain biking.

Come in the quieter months and you’ll enjoy the warm sunshine, empty beaches, and turquoise seas: it’s easy to see why visitors return to the Côte d’Azur again and again.

Explore the villages of the French Riviera with a tour.

Burgundy, known internationally for its rich, full-bodied wines, is one of France’s lesser-visited regions. A trip here is an escape into some of the country’s most idyllic countryside, featuring rolling green hills covered in orderly vineyards, bright, yellow mustard fields, and tranquil canals.

Burgundy’s vineyards are so important they have even been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, in a nod to the richness and diversity of this significant wine-producing region. However, while a vineyard tour should definitely be on the agenda, this beguiling region has plenty of other treats to entice visitors.

Dijon, the regional capital, was once the home of the Burgundian dukes, and their influence may still be felt in the stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture that makes up the city.

The region’s fine produce is always on show here, and the fabulous Friday market at Les Halles is not to be missed, featuring local specialities such as Epoisses cheese, escargots (snails), and of course, the famous beef bourguignon.

Outside the city, the countryside is littered with fabulous medieval monasteries, castles , and some of France’s most beautiful villages. The small, walled town of Beaune, with its cobbled streets, Gothic architecture and labyrinthine wine cellars has charm in abundance. This profuse, laid-back region offers plenty of activities for nature lovers.

This is the place to hire a bike and spend the day weaving through the vineyards or drift lazily through the countryside in a canal boat, admiring the view. For walkers, the magnificent Morvan National Park provides over 1000 square kilometres of unspoilt countryside, filled with lakes , waterfalls , and atmospheric woodland. This is undoubtedly the French countryside at its finest.

Explore Burgundy with a day trip from Beaune or Dijon

LOIRE VALLEY

The Loire is France’s last untamed river, a 1000-mile-long, meandering natural habitat that humans have never quite managed to subdue. This aquatic highway has been left almost undisturbed over the centuries to shape the contours of the land that it flows through, and the Loire Valley, otherwise known as the ‘garden of France’, is the product of its meandering course.

The Loire and its tributaries irrigate this fertile landscape, allowing it to bear some of the finest natural produce that France has to offer. The pace of life here follows the river, slow and relaxed, with seasonal bursts of activity.

A visit to the Loire means two things: wine and castles. The fertile rolling hills of this green region offer perfect conditions for growing grapes, and vineyard tours and wine tastings are on offer wherever you go. The region is also dotted with impressive castles, many of which are set in marvellous gardens, overlooking small rivers.

In particular, the Château de Chenonceau conjures images of fairy tales, with its elegant arches and towers, and a well-kept garden maze. Another highlight is the Château de Chambord, an immense structure that was built as a hunting lodge for the French king Francois I, set in grounds filled with deer and wild boar. This wild, sprawling castle continues to delight visitors and is thought to have been inspired by sketches by Leonardo da Vinci.

The stunning fortified towns of Amboise and Chinon both include their own castles, and provide an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Chinon is a particularly good stop for wine lovers, as it is one of the Loire’s main wine-producing areas, but this pleasant medieval settlement has many other things to offer, including a beautiful old town with distinctive slate-topped houses.

Here, it’s also possible to hire bikes, and set off to enjoy the slow beauty of the Loire Valley on two wheels, at your own pace.

Book a day trip to discover the gems of the Loire Valley here.

Just a stone’s throw from the capital, yet half a world away: the green, lush region of Champagne is one of France’s most iconic spots. This is the region that gives its name to those delicious, sparkling wines that have become an international marker of class and sophistication, and it’s impossible to come here without sampling a glass or two.

Winemaking in Champagne has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the processes, techniques and produce that go into making this quintessential French export. Épernay, the regional capital, is the perfect base from which to set out into the vineyards; just be prepared to return with heavy bags and an empty wallet!

Away from the wine trail, the Champagne region exudes old-world charm, and wandering through its beautiful villages and towns often feels like a step back in time. In fact, Champagne is a place with a visceral connection to its medieval past.

In stark contrast to the glitzy image that surrounds Champagne wines, this is a region of peace, calm and simple pleasures, where artisans and winemakers use traditional processes dating back centuries.

Troyes, an important settlement since the Roman period, features stunning medieval architecture, historic churches, and traditional timbered buildings lining its narrow streets. The regional capital, Reims , is a triumph of Gothic architecture, and its breath-taking cathedral was once the site where the kings of France were crowned and anointed.

Although it suffered extensive damage during the two world wars, Reims has been painstakingly restored in harmony with its medieval past, making it a lively, pleasant starting point from which to explore the wider Champagne region.

Book a Champagne day trip here

DORDOGNE & LOT

The Dordogne River snakes and weaves its way from the high mountains of the Auvergne, down to some of the finest countryside that France has to offer. Passing by dramatic fortified castles , perched precariously on high cliffs, the river continues through Bergerac until it meets the Garonne River at Bordeaux.

In between, the green and fertile lands that make up the Dordogne Valley offer a treasure trove of delights for visitors, both above and below the ground. Traversing the Dordogne and Lot involves, by necessity, an encounter with a very ancient past. More prehistoric remains have been found here than in any other part of France, providing a unique glimpse of the earliest origins of human society.

In the Vézère Valley, over 200 separate Palaeolithic sites have been identified, and it seems that the prehistoric inhabitants of this beautiful region were attracted by the natural protection afforded by its limestone caves.

The jewel in the crown is the fabulous site at Lascaux, where, 17,000 years ago, early humans covered the walls of the cave complex with a series of incredible paintings. More ancient still, however, are the glittering caves and grottos that may be found deeper beneath the ground.

This region is littered with incredible rock formations, formed over millions of years, with stalactites and stalagmites that have merged into epic pillars, creating natural, subterranean cathedrals of sparkling rock. Above ground, the Dordogne and Lot regions have even more treats on offer.

The beautiful medieval settlements of Rocamadour, La Roque-Gageac and Sarlat-la-Canéda are well worth a visit, as are the castles at Beynac and Castelnaud. These picturesque villages and fortified chateaux , constructed in golden stone, are set within glorious natural scenery, with abundant wildlife and birdlife.

There’s plenty here to keep active families occupied, with hiking, climbing, cycling and canoeing on offer throughout the valley. The ideal France holiday destination, this region is a little slice of heaven on earth.

Book your Dordogne tour from Sarlat here.

The Languedoc covers the southwest corner of France, a vast, sprawling region crammed full of fabulous treasures. The ‘langue d’oc’, literally means the ‘language of yes’, and refers to a medieval French dialect that fostered a rich literary and poetic culture during the Middle Ages.

This was the home of courtly love, the chivalric ideal, and the epic Romance legends of King Arthur, and it’s clear that these medieval glory days have left a deep and profound mark on the culture and landscape.

The Languedoc coast, unlike its Provençal neighbour , feels wild and unkempt and offers countless opportunities for exploration. This is the ideal place to toss out the maps and get lost – you never know what you might discover.

The cities of the Languedoc, including Toulouse and Montpelier, are known for their pleasant boulevards and squares and laid back atmosphere. The ‘pink city’ of Toulouse, so named for the terracotta bricks used in its construction, offers bustling markets and a vibrant music scene and is an ideal jumping-off point for the rest of the region.

Towards the foothills of the Pyrenees, the sanctuary of Lourdes, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in 1858, attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Pilgrims of a different kind arrive at the small town of Rennes-le-Chateau, seeking answers to a conspiracy theory that has raged for decades.

The southwest French coast, stretching from the Camargue to the Côte Vermeille, next to the Spanish frontier, is exceptionally varied, including vast, sandy beaches, marshy wetlands, and pink, rocky outcrops. This wild coast is home to fabulous sea life and many species of birds, making it an ideal spot for nature observation.

Oysters and mussels are the local specialities, and in season, you can eat them directly on the beach: seafood doesn’t come fresher than this.

The pleasant waterfront town of Sète, with its seaside corniche and atmospheric canals, is one of the best places in France to sample the catch of the day. Further inland, the landscape is dramatic, featuring imposing cliffs, gorges and valleys, chestnut forests, and vineyards, punctuated by some fabulous medieval architecture.

The fortified city of Carcassonne , once the stronghold of the Cathar heretics who rebelled against the king, is truly breathtaking and not to be missed. However, Carcassonne was not the only stronghold left behind by the Cathars, and it’s still possible to visit the dramatic ruined vestiges of Montségur, Quéribus and Peyrepertuse for an atmospheric evocation of the medieval past.

The Languedoc has long been a historical crossing point, the meeting place of different cultures, languages and even religions. These diverse influences have produced a rich and distinctive culture, making this one of France’s most rewarding regions for curious travellers.

Discover the delights of the Languedoc on a guided tour.

Provence, the delightful region that envelops the Côte d’Azur, is a heady assault on the senses. Rolling fields of bright, purple lavender , rows of vines stretching into the horizon, and gorgeous groves of twisted olive trees mark out Provence as a true garden of delights.

Aix-en-Provence , the elegant regional city , brings a touch of this rural sensuality to an urban setting, combining leafy courtyards, sculpted stone buildings, and wide boulevards strewn with terraces where visitors can while away the hours and watch the world go by. The city’s colourful markets bring together the very best of Provençal produce, in a vivid display that is sure to whet your appetite.

Avignon , one of Provence’s main cities, also offers visitors plenty of things to see and do . For the better part of the 14 th century, the papal court was based at Avignon, and in this period, popes were not known for their restraint. The Avignon popes set about building a lavish palace, which stands to this day, complete with magnificent frescos.

The city also features several excellent museums, the famous Pont d’Avignon, and an annual arts and theatre festival that attracts an international crowd.

However, Provence’s most enticing charms are found outside the main urban hubs, in the countryside. Picture-perfect medieval villages such as Venasque, Uzès and Gordes offer ample opportunity for exploration, featuring cobbled streets, golden stone architecture, and green, mountainous backdrops.

Les Baux de Provence is perhaps the finest example of restored Provençal village architecture, with its own citadel and a fearsome reputation for gastronomy.

Provence is also home to an abundance of wildlife, supported by its diverse range of natural habitats. In the southwest corner of the region, the green hills drop away to a vast wetland in the Rhône delta.

The Camargue National Park includes herds of wild, white horses, roaming bulls and flocks of startling pink flamingos. This unique, beautiful area is best explored on foot or on horseback and is certain to leave a big impression.

Book your day trip from Aix-en-Provence here .

Read More: Provence Travel Guide

The best way to discover the top destinations in France

Trying to experience the best of France on your own can be a fun and rewarding experience. But to truly get to know a destination, I usually recommend taking at least one tour with a guide who is genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about the area.

Imagine being led through a landscape laced with vineyards, to learn the intricacies of winemaking direct from the source. Or wandering through ancient city lanes, pausing to examine archaic art etched into walls that you would have otherwise overlooked. 

It is personal and authentic experiences like these that French tour company Ophorus pride themselves on. They excel at helping you discover the very best of France, their home, in a relaxed and friendly way. Ophorus guides lead the pack when it comes to delivering meaningful encounters; their expert and in-depth knowledge, delivered in a professional yet approachable manner, has earned them the highest praise from past tour attendees.

The company’s commitment to excellence has also awarded them a coveted spot in the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for 5 years running!

France is a magically diverse country, full of surprises and closely held secrets. I encourage you to explore further than the top France attractions, to discover the country that has inspired so many. Get to know it’s intricacies and you’ll no doubt be yearning to return…

Pin this for later!

*This post has been bought to you in partnership with Ophorus. As always, Le Long Weekend maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. 

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10 comments.

You’re so right that France is such a varied place! I could spend weeks in each region. There’s so much to discover! I feel so privileged to be able to live in such a beautiful country.

Absolutely – me too! I feel especially lucky to have been able to spend months living in & getting to know several areas really well – but still so much more to discover!

You’ve picked a great choice of regions to visit. Of all of those I think I like Normandy most (other than The Riviera and Provence which come first for me!) I’d like to explore more of Alsace, I’ve really only scratched the surface. I would also definitely add Brittany and the Basque coast to the list and one of my favourite places île de Ré. But honestly I could go on and on…Lyon, the Pyrennes, the Alps, Jura and volcanoes of Auvergne. Nancy, Nantes, Marseilles and the Camargue. The Catalan area around Perpignan….I better stop! Thaks for linking up to #AllAboutFrance and agreeing to host next time.

Haha yes, Provence will always come first for me too – but I’m just a little bit biased 😉

Some fantastic suggestions here, some I have visited but others are on the list! There is so much more to France, than Paris – the only problem is fitting it all in! #AllAboutFrance

So many visitors just head to Paris and however wonderful the city is, France is much more than just her capital. Great post and really happy to see you added Normandy – we have guests to our gite who come back more than once as there is just so much to see and do here! #AllAboutFrance

Thanks Nadine for your insights. We are currently planning our trip and this kind of knowledge is exactly what we were after!

Awesome. I mostly spent time in Paris so I have much to catch up to

Hi Nadine! This is really informative post. I’ve never been to France but planning to visit in a few years with my family. I definitely want to explore France other than Paris and these suggested regions help me to narrow down destinations. I also agree that going on a tour with a guide would be helpful to discover your first-visit place. Thanks a lot!

Aaaah les châteaux de la Loire! Amazing place.

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14 Beautiful Towns & Cities Near Paris That Are Worth Visiting

Want to explore some towns and cities near Paris ? From artsy towns and beautiful hamlets to historical and architectural cities, this article has them all.

Paris is not only the capital of France but also the most famous and most visited city in the country too.

The city of love , art, impressive architecture, and elegance, there is so much that makes Paris one of the most beautiful cities in Europe .

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While there are so many things to do in Paris , sometimes you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of this magnetic city and explore other places.

Whether you want to go on a day trip or a weekend trip from Paris , there are so many charming and cute cities near Paris that will leave you wondering why you haven’t explored them yet.

Right from Chantilly which is one of the closest cities to Paris to Normandy which is approximately 3 hours away, here is a list of 14 beautiful cities close to Paris that are worth visiting and I guarantee, they’ll leave you spellbound.

I’ve also included some fun facts and unique bits of information so be sure to read those as well.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Stunning Towns & Cities Near Paris, France

For convenience’s sake, I have listed the French cities near Paris from closest to farthest though they may not necessarily be in the same direction.

1. Chantilly

• Travel time: 25 mins from Gare du Nord by train or 40 mins if you rent a car and drive to Chantilly .
• Where to stay in Chantilly: Budget hotel (2 stars)| Mid-range Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)| Luxury Hotel (5 stars).

Famously known because of an opulent Château which takes on the same name as the city, Chantilly is the nearest city to Paris!

Though Château de Chantilly is usually thought of as just one castle, it is in fact made of 2 Châteaux – the Petit Château and the Grand Château which together form the Domaine de Chantilly.

The entire Domaine houses several museums including the Living Museum of the Horse or Musée du Cheval , Musée Condé , Musée de la Dentelle , Great Stables or the Grandes Ecuries (which are the largest horse stables in Europe), and the immaculately maintained gardens.

Besides the castle, you can also marvel at the Church of Notre Dame of Chantilly which you can find near the Great Stables of Domaine de Chantilly.

If a long walk surrounded by nature is what you long for, look no further than the Chantilly Forest.

While in this beautiful town, don’t forget to try the eponymous French Chantilly Cream (Crème Chantilly) which has influenced the whipped cream business all around France. In fact, whipped cream is referred to as creme chantilly or just la chantilly everywhere in the country.

Before your trip, be sure to buy this Château de Chantilly skip-the-line ticket to enjoy your visit without waiting in line for long.

2. Versailles

• Travel time: Paris to Versailles will take you 40 mins to 1 hour by train .
• Where to stay in Versailles: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment)| Luxury Hotel (5 stars).

One of the easy day trips from Paris you should take is to the town of Versailles which is home to the opulent Château de Versailles or Palace of Versailles, a former residence of King Louis XIV and the former seat of the French Government.

While there, be sure to check out the Hall of Mirrors , the Grand Chapel , Marie Antoinette’s bedroom , Le Grand Perspective for the best view of Versailles, Galerie des Carrosses or Gallery of Coaches in the Great Stables, and the dazzling and beautiful gardens of Versailles .

The grounds and the place’s park also house some architectural marvels of the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon .

The Queen’s Hamlet or The Hameau de la Reine is another beauty in the Palace park that was built especially for Marie Antoinette as an escape place to get away from it all.

If watching an opera, orchestra, or ballet performance is on your bucket list, then you’ll be glad to know that the Royal Opera of Versailles is located here as well. Dress up like royalty and attend a show at night.

While in the town, I’d also recommend checking out the Versailles Market to try out a wide range of French foods like baguettes, crêpes, and cheese but if organic food is what you prefer, then the Jussieu-Montreuil market is the place you’ll want to explore.

You can also admire the architectural beauty of Notre Dame de Versailles before you leave this historical town.

To visit Versailles, you can either go on your own by purchasing this skip-the-line ticket that comes with an audio guide or book this guided tour if you want to learn about the history of the palace from a knowledgeable tour guide.

Not sure how to get to this opulent castle? You can read my detailed guide on how to get from Paris to Versailles .

3. Fontainebleau

• Travel time: A 45 mins to 1-hour train ride from Paris departing from Gare de Lyon .
• Where to stay in Fontainebleau: Budget hotel (3 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Since I’ve mentioned Versailles, I should also add the lesser crowded alternative; the gorgeous Château de Fontainebleau located in the beautiful town of Fontainebleau.

Besides its grandeur architecture and the famous Horseshoe staircase, this UNESCO-listed site houses Marie Antoinette’s bed and Napoleon’s throne among other royal artifacts.

The castle is also surrounded by beautiful gardens which take on different designs including the French formal garden style and the French landscape garden.

If you’re a history buff, then the Napoleon Museum of History and Art and the Obelisk of Marie Antoinette will fascinate you.

What makes this castle even more special is that it’s the only château to have been continuously inhabited for 7 centuries by the French royal families with each royal family adding its unique taste and architectural design to what we see today. It is the only château in France to have this honor.

Hikers, picnic goers, and equestrians will be delighted with the scenic Fontainebleau Forest and its offerings.

Psst… Purchase this Fontainebleau entry ticket in advance to make your visit easier.

• Travel time: 1-hour train ride from Gare du Nord or more than a 2-hour drive by car .
• Where to stay in Lille: Budget hotel (3 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Apartment).

Located just 1 hour away from Paris and at the Border of Belgium, Lille is one of the beautiful cities near Paris that has a mixture of both French and Flemish cultures and languages.

The bustling city center, the beautiful French and Dutch-inspired architecture, and the thriving nightlife all make the city of Lille a cultural hub perfect for both youngsters and history nerds.

The highlight of course is the old town that has a Flemish touch. From the 18th-century houses, cobblestone streets, and baroque buildings, Old Lille will definitely grab your attention.

Stroll around its main square known as the Grand Place to either people watch, rub shoulders with the locals, or even admire the Colonne de la Déesse (The Column of the Goddess).

Some of the other places worth visiting while in Lille include;   Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle which is the birthplace of Charles de Gaulle, a former President of France who played a huge role in shaping the history of the country, La Maison Meert to taste the traditional thin-waffle delicacy, Le Palais Des Beaux Arts De Lille which is one of the largest museums in France dedicated to art and antiquities, Citadelle de Lille to learn about the history of the city and so many others.

Since it’s near, it can easily be treated as a day trip from Paris but if you prefer to sleep there, I recommend staying at this hotel .

And while you can visit independently, I recommend booking this 2-hour guided walking tour that will take you through all the major highlights of the city especially if you’re just visiting for a day.

5. Auvers-Sur-Oise

• Travel time: 1 hour by train departing from Gare du Nord .
• Where to stay in Auvers-Sur-Oise: Budget hotel (Bed & Breakfast) | Mid-range Hotel (4 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Bed & Breakfast).

This small and underrated hamlet caught the fancy of none other than the famous artist, Vincent Van Gogh , who lived here for a couple of months before his death. Actually, it is also his and his brother’s resting place.

Château d’Auvers , which is located close to the station, is a 19th-century palace that looks magnificent and is worth checking out.

The église d’Auvers or the Church at Auvers is also another attraction depicted beautifully in Van Gogh’s painting of the same name.

To get your spirits up, quite literally, you can visit the only absinthe museum in the world located in Auvers at the Musée de l’Absinthe . Right from its history to abuse to actually tasting it (if you can risk it), you can experience it all.

• Travel time: A 1-hour drive by car or 2 hours 30 mins by train will get you from Paris to Giverny.
• Where to stay in Giverny: Budget hotel (Bed & Breakfast) | Mid-range Hotel (Holiday home) | Luxury Hotel (Guest house).

This quaint village is famous because Claude Monet lived here for over 4 decades and died here as well. The picturesque surroundings are probably what draws aesthetes here and inspires them.

For example, the Giverny Gardens with the iconic water lily pond and Japanese bridge are what inspired some of Monet’s most famous paintings .

Art lovers can also check out the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny or Museum of Impressionism Giverny which as the name suggests is dedicated to the art and history of Impressionism.

You can check out my detailed guide on how to plan a day trip to Giverny from Paris to know exactly what to expect.

But if you don’t feel like planning the visit on your own, you can book this day trip guided tour that comes with a professional guide .

This tour will transport you from Paris to Giverny (since there is no direct public transport between the 2 places) and then the tour guide will take you all around the museum and the gardens while telling you about the history of the place and the famous painter.

7. Chartres

• Travel time: 50 mins drive by car and 1 hour by train .
• Where to stay in Chartres: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment)| Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Chartres is most famous for the Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral which is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also one of the best-preserved cathedrals from the 13 th century.

The two differently built and decorated spires on the exterior with its Gothic art and stained glass windows on the interior are what will grab your attention when you visit the cathedral.

Do not miss the Chartres Light Show or Chartres En Lumieres if you visit between the end of April to mid-October. Once it’s nightfall, 25 buildings across Chartres, including Notre-Dame de Chartres, illuminate with impressive light shows.

Another unique charm of this town is Maison Picassiette , which is a short bus ride away. Raymond Isidore the man who built this house used different bits and materials to decorate it.

You will be fascinated to find everything from glass shards to pieces of wood to bottle caps used in a creative manner.

Plus, the sculpture garden behind his cottage has mosaic replicas of stained-glass windows of Notre Dame de Chartres, an old windmill, and even the Eiffel Tower .

• Travel time: 1 hour 30 mins from Gare de l’Est by train .
• Where to stay in Provins: Budget hotel (Apartment) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Bed & Breakfast).

The town of Provins is another UNESCO World Heritage site that you should visit if you want to be transported back in time.

Everything about it screams medieval and dates back centuries like the 12th-century medieval tower, Tour César , or the medieval tunnels, Les Souterrains de Provins .

The city also holds a medieval Christmas market annually which you can visit if you go around Christmastime .

The town itself is pretty laidback but it does have medieval shows that you can watch like knights performing with horses and falconry.

You can also visit or attend mass at Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church , a church where Joan of Arc attended mass.

One of the other interesting things to do in Provins is to walk up Saint-Jean’s Gate and climb the medieval ramparts.

Though some of the walls are no longer there, the few that exist are well maintained so you’ll be able to enjoy the construction that dates back to the 12th century.

• Travel time: A 1 hour 20 mins train journey from Gare du Nord to Amiens .
• Where to stay in Amiens: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment) | Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Situated in the northern region of France, Amiens is one of the cutest cities near Paris.

The Amiens Cathedral or Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens which is the most famous attraction in the city is also the largest cathedral in France.

This UNESCO site which stands tall at over 42 meters (137 feet) will mesmerize you with its intricate façade, oak choir stalls, and gothic carvings.

If you’re a bibliophile and know of Jules Verne or have read his books, then you should also know that he spent a big part of his life in this city specifically in Maison de Jules Verne which now houses models of innovations and the Winter Garden.

For fine art lovers, the Musée de Picardie will amaze you. It includes artifacts and masterpieces right from the prehistoric era.

Also, the Quartier Saint-Leu, a medieval quarter in Amiens will have you exploring and trying out different restaurants, cafés, and boutiques.

10. Strasbourg

• Travel time: 2 hours from Gare de l’Est by train .
• Where to stay in Strasbourg: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment) | Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Apart from being a poster town for the Christmas Market or Marché de Noel, Strasbourg offers so much more.

For example, the Saint-Pierre Le Jeune Church has a unique history that you may not know about. Until recently, neither did I.

This neo-Romanesque church started off as a Catholic church and was converted to a Protestant one.

Later on, for nearly 2 centuries, it was split among the Protestants and the Catholics by a dividing wall inside.

In 1898, the New Saint-Pierre Le Jeune Church was constructed and the Catholic congregation moved there and the wall was taken down. It is now back to being a Protestant church.

Then there’s the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg with its beautiful Gothic architecture in red sandstone and stained glass windows from the 12 th and 13 th centuries.

Even Strasbourg’s historical centre, the Grande-Île district, is a UNESCO-listed site. Beyond the impressive architecture that portrays both the German and French styles, there is so much to do and see in Strasbourg.

From Place Kleber , a beautiful square, Palais Rohan a beautiful palace near Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg to Petite France which is the most beautiful place in the city with its colorful half-timbered houses lined along the river.

With all this beauty, it’s not hard to see why Strasbourg is one of the most beautiful cities near Paris to visit.

To make your visit to Strasbourg smooth, you can pre-book your activities in advance to be guaranteed a spot.

You can either book this Strasbourg guided tour by Segway if you want to discover the city in style or this Strasbourg city center guided bike tour with a local to get the most out of your visit.

11. Chablis

• Travel time: 2 hours’ drive by car from Paris will get you to Chablis or around 3 hours by train.
• Where to stay in Chablis: Budget hotel (Apartment) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Holiday Home).

Located in the region of Burgundy, this medieval town of Chablis is well known for growing Chardonnay grapes and hence known for its wineries.

Besides learning about the whole winemaking process, you can visit the 9th-century Obédiencerie monastery where the monks, the Canons of Saint Martin of Tours, honed the craft of winemaking which eventually led to the white wine of the Chablis region.

Other notable things to do that make Chablis worth visiting include visiting Saint-Pierre and Saint-Martin churches , admiring the beautiful old town, and ofcourse visiting the various vineyards.

In brief, Chablis is one of the towns near Paris perfect for wine lovers!

12. Loire Valley

• Travel time: To get to the Loire Valley region, you will have to rent a car and it takes about 2 hours 15 mins or 1 hour 30 mins by train.
• Where to stay in Tours: Budget hotel (1 star) | Mid-range Hotel (2 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Apartment).

Loire Valley is one of the best regions to savor your wine. Where are the oenophiles at? Besides that, it also has the largest concentration of châteaux in France .

Here, even some of the châteaux have their own vineyards so if you like castles, adore your “Vin” time, and want to feel like royalty while you’re at it, this is the ideal place to go.

Some of the famous châteaux worth visiting include Château de Chambord , Château de Amboise , Château Royal de Blois , Château de Chenonceau and so many others.

And when you’re not drinking amazing wine or getting lost in one of the Loire Castles, take a tour of Tours, a picturesque town located between two rivers (Cher and Loire).

You can immerse yourself in art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours which houses masterpieces by Monet and Rembrandt.

Here are some of the entry tickets to the famous castles you shouldn’t miss while in the region.

• Skip-the-line ticket for Château de Chambord
• Priority entrance ticket to Chenonceau Castle
• Château Royal d’Amboise Entrance Ticket
• Chateau de Blois Entry Ticket

Alternatively, you can just book this full-day Loire Valley guided tour that will take you through 3 of the above castles including wine tasting and a transfer from Paris if you don’t want to plan anything.

• Travel time: 2 hours 30 mins by train or 5 hours by car from Gare de l’Est .
• Where to stay in Colmar: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (4 stars) | Luxury Hotel (2 stars).

Colmar is one of those cities near Paris that looks like it came out of a picture postcard.

This idyllic town with its bucolic setting will transport you back in time. The old town with its intricate, cobblestone pathways, timber-framed, colorful houses, and medieval buildings will charm their way into your heart the minute you set foot in the town.

What’s more, you ask? Well, it lies on the Alsace wine tour route along with other smaller villages in the vicinity.

If riding in a boat through the canals of Venice was on your bucket list of things to do but the crowds put you off, Colmar offers a less crowded alternative in Little Venice .

The canal area with its two dreamy bridges albeit small will offer you just as much if not a more scenic and romantic setting.

If you happen to be here around Christmas, then the Les Marchés de Noel are worth staying for.

One of the other things not to miss out on is this 2-hour Segway tour of Colmar to get a glimpse of this beautiful city in style.

14.  Normandy

• Travel time: A 2 hour 45 mins drive by car and around 2 hours 30 mins by train.

Located along the English Channel, Normandy is one of the cities close to Paris that sits on years of history (and terror in some instances)!

What sets Normandy apart compared to other closest cities to Paris is that it has a little bit of everything!

You can find stunning beaches to relax on, impressive natural landmarks and human-made monuments , castles, and museums to get lost in history, and small towns and villages to connect with the locals.

Visit the town of Étretat to the North of Normandy to enjoy a cliffside picnic while enjoying the breathtaking view of the English Channel or admire the beauty of the white chalk cliffs.

The famous D-Day beaches out of which Omaha beach is the most popular is a 1 hour 30 mins drive from Normandy if you fancy some sunbathing while learning more history about the D-day landing.

Another site worth making a trip to is the Mont Saint-Michel , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose abbey rises to 100m (328 ft.) tall. (Make sure you buy this entry ticket to Mont Sant Michel in advance .)

But beware, during high tide, it becomes an island accessible only by one road. The Abbey has 350 steps to the highest point but the view from there is worth the effort.

You can also explore the Museum of the Battle of Normandy to learn more about WWII, wander around Honfleur , chill on the beaches of Deauville , or visit Château de Fontaine-Henry which is the most beautiful castle in Normandy.

If you don’t want to plan a thing, you can opt for one of these tours below.

• D-Day Landing beaches day tour with transfer and lunch
• Mont Saint-Michel full-day guided tour

Final Thoughts on the Closest Cities to Paris

I hope you liked my picks of the best cities close to Paris. Of course, it’s none-exhaustive but I’d add more as explore other towns near Paris.

Let me know which of these cities around Paris you have visited or plan on visiting.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Nontouristy things to do in Paris
• Stunning views from the Eiffel Tower
• How to plan a perfect picnic in Paris
• Big mistakes to avoid while traveling in Paris
• Things to know before traveling to Paris
• Skip the lines tickets for popular Paris attractions
• Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel tower views
• Things to do in Paris at night
• How to skip the long lines in Paris
• Best places to get stunning views of the Eiffel Tower

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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Top 10 cities to visit in France (besides Paris!)

Planning a trip to France? Looking for top cities to visit (that aren’t Paris!) Here are 10 of the best cities in France- and why you should plan a trip to see them.

I get it- trying to figure out WHERE to visit in France can feel completely overwhelming.

The short answer is that wherever you go, you’ll enjoy something there. But, to help you plan your French adventure a little better, we’ve put together this list of the best cities in France (outside of Paris!) for a weekend visit or even longer. If you’d like more information about the different regions in France, check out these France road trip ideas (and points of interest to see)

Planning a trip to France? Grab your FREE road trip planner HERE and start creating your perfect trip

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Map of the top 10 cities to visit in France (plus Paris)

Here’s a map of the top 10 cities in France mentioned in this article, so you can find them easily and start planning your France trips.

Don’t forget, if you’re touring France you can add several of these cities together to make an epic French road trip and, if you’re looking for a bit of history, here are 7 of the best historical places in France .

So, now you know WHERE they are- let’s talk about why you should add these cities to your France itinerary. Of course, there are many (MANY!) more towns and cities to explore- these are just 10 of our favourites.

Nice- one of the top 10 cities to visit in France outside of Paris

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Nice is one of the most popular cities in France. The city that some time ago was the home of artists like Matisse and Chagall is now one of the most touristic cities of the Côte d’Azur.

For its art, beaches and the beautiful mountains that surround the city, there’s a reason Nice is considered one of the best places to live in France – it’s a perfect fit for everyone looking to escape from the routine of a big city. 

When is the best time to visit Nice?

If you want to visit Nice at its best, don’t go during the summer season, from June to September. As with every place in France in high season, prices will rise and the city will be crowded. For that reason, a great month to visit Nice is May. You’ll have good weather, fewer people and more competitive prices. Nice is also one of the best European cities to visit in winter, so consider that as an option. 

Ok, it’s a famous city in France. But what is there to DO?

Some of the highlights of Nice include:

• Colline du Château: this is an amazing spot for seeing the sunset in Nice.
• Promenade Des Anglais: one of the most famous places in town! A seven kilometres walk next to the beach is always a good idea.
• Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya: the local market opens from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 to 13:30 and it’s a great spot to discover the local cuisine.
• Le Vieux Nice: the Old Nice is what the locals call the old town. In this small part of the city, you’ll find some of the most iconic buildings like the Nice Cathedral, the Church of Gesù and the Opera House.

How long should you spend visiting Nice?

Nice is a great destination for a weekend getaway, it’s a small city and you can get to know the main spots in two or three days. 

It’s also a great base for a trip to Menton for the lemon festival or other places down the French Riviera.

TOP TIP- if you’re heading down to Nice in a car or motorhome, make sure you add crossing the Millau Bridge into your French road trip itinerary. It’s expensive (especially in a motorhome) but everyone should drive across that at least once! 🙂

Colmar- one of the most beautiful cities in France

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One of the best places to visit in France is Colmar, a gem of a destination in the beautiful French Alsace. In  Colmar, France you have a picturesque and quaint city known for its delicious Alsatian cuisine, half-timber houses and wonderful wine.

What’s so special about Colmar?

When you’re visiting Colmar, you’ll notice how the culture is different from the rest of France. In the Alsace region, spoken dialect is different and many aspects of the language and culture reflect both German and French influences. The region has switched hands throughout history and was an autonomous collection of fortified cities for centuries. The food scene mirrors the best of German and French cooking with hearty German-style dishes prepared to a French standard.

Why is Colmar one of the most famous cities in France?

Colmar is also famous for the colourful half-timber houses and medieval city centre. Walking around Colmar feels like you’ve you been transported back in time or stepped into a classic fairy tale story. One of the best spots in the city to feel this is  La Petite Venise , a stretch of beautiful homes along Colmar’s canals. You can even book a gondola ride through the waterway for the full experience.

The entire region is famous for their vineyards and any trip to Colmar requires a good wine tasting. Many of the wine houses will offer you a free and informal tasting when you enter their shops in Colmar or you can schedule a formal wine tasting in locations around the city. Colmar is a perfect place from which to explore nearby villages and smaller wine route destinations in the southern Alsace.

Annecy- one of the prettiest cities in France

If you’re heading anywhere near the French Alps, someone will tell you to visit Annecy. And they’re right.

This small but gorgeous city sits on the banks of Lake Annecy and is surrounded by stunning mountain views.

HOWEVER- if you are touring France in a motorhome , don’t turn up at Annecy without a campsite booked. We did- and it’s one of the hardest places to wild camp or find aires in France we’ve ever been.

Also, don’t fly your drone over the lake unless you’re prepared to lose it- a random gust of wind knocked our drone out of the sky and it fell into the lake. It was very sad- you can watch the video here and learn other mistakes not to make at Annecy !

Highlights of Annecy

Some of the best things to do in Annecy include:

• Watching the sunrise over Lake Annecy
• Watersports or a boat trip on the lake
• Paragliding- those views looks amazing!
• Explore Annecy old town (and its canals!)

Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner HERE and start creating your perfect France road trip

Biarritz- one of the top seaside cities in france.

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Biarritz is one of the most beautiful and relaxed beach town in the south-west of France. Built right on the Atlantic Ocean, Biarritz was once a hub for pirates and corsairs but has now become a ritzy destination where tourists and locals go to surf, relax at a spa, enjoy the sunny summers by the beach and taste the amazing Basque cuisine! 

Ok, so it’s a famous city, but why should I visit?

The city centre is quite small and can easily be visited on foot. One of the best things to do is to walk from the Côte des Basques to the north end lighthouse via the main beach. From there, you can catch an incredible sunset over the ocean.

Surfing is also fantastic here, as is the beautiful beach. It’s a mecca for surfers so the vibe is mostly chill. If you’re in a van, it can be hard to wild camp here, so expect to need a campsite.

When is the best time to visit Biarritz?

The best time to visit is September or October- the sea has warmed up but the crowds are gone for the summer. (Here are some more great places to visit in Europe in October. )

Biarritz is only 15 min from Bayonne where most national trains stop, but can also easily be reached by road. There is a lot of parking in the city but on weekends, and mostly during the summer months, Biarritz tends to get crowded and the free parking spaces are hard to find. An early visit is usually necessary to find a good parking spot.

Biarritz is a gorgeous place for a weekend  but also the perfect town to base yourself to discover the French side of the Basque country. From the city, it is easy to take day trips along the coast or into the countryside and the Pyrenees.

Toulouse- one of the top cities in France

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If you want to discover more about French culture, a trip to Toulouse is perfect.

Located in South West France, Toulouse is one of the most beautiful cities in France and yet so underrated! Nicknamed the Pink City (“La Ville Rose”), it has many beautiful pink buildings! 

How to visit Toulouse

Toulouse is easily accessible by train or plane. If you want to drive and discover more of France, the best way is to park in a  free car park at one of the metro stations. You can then take public transport from there. The city centre is quite small and compact which makes it easily navigable- except for big vehicles like motorhomes!

It might be a top city but what is there to do?

It’s worth spending a weekend here as you will find many things to do in Toulouse and it offers good nightlife. 

You can start your visit with the capitole, the central square. From there you can walk up to La Daurade and enjoy a picnic on the banks of the River Garonne. The views of the city and river are beautiful! It’s a good place to enjoy a stroll as well. You can do a loop from La Daurade through St Pierre and up to St Cyprien.

If you like shopping, St Georges and Carmes districts will be your paradise! Finally, if you want to experience some typical french food, head to either Esquirol or Rue du Taur. There are many restaurants and bars serving Cassoulet, crepes and duck confit! 

When is the best time to visit Toulouse?

Toulouse is situated in the South of France which means that it can get quite hot during summer so the best time to go would be May, June or September. You should get very nice and pleasant weather and avoid the worst of the crowds.

Cannes- the famous French city of Glamour!

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Cannes is often referred to as ‘The city of glamour’ and is one of the most memorable cities to visit in France. Not just for the International Film Festival, which sees world-known stars walk the red carpets of Cannes every year in May, but for the beauty of the place.

When is the best time to visit Cannes?

Cannes can be visited from spring to late autumn – even though if you come here for the full-on sun, you have to do so in summer. Avoid May if you want to stay away from crowds and elevated prices for the Film Festival.

Cannes can be easily visited on a  day trip from Nice . It’s only 30 kilometres away and, if you want to do it in true Riviera style, rent a convertible or a scooter! I’d recommend the scooter since you can park it a lot easier. If coming by car, make use of one of the paid parking lots – try Parking Pantiero near the Old Port. There’s a direct train connection between Nice and Cannes too. 

Ok, so it’s one of the top cities in France, but what is there to DO?

You definitely shouldn’t miss the Old Town – Le Suquet. Uniquely, it’s located on a hill, so as well as strolling through the old streets of Cannes, and perhaps tracing the oldest buildings, you can also admire views over the modern part of the city.

A waterfront avenue lined with palm trees called Promenade de la Croisette is a 3km long boulevard perfect for a proper Cannes walk, engaging in plenty of Art Nouveau architecture- and people-watching.

On the way, make sure to stop at the Old Harbor (Vieux Port). Like anywhere else on the French Riviera, this is the place to admire the luxury yachts. Here, though, they alternate with smaller, and less fancy, fishing boats.

The newer part of Cannes is equally pleasing. Even here the streets are rather small and winding. This part of town is full of restaurants, cafés and bars and offers a lively vibe.

Strasbourg- a beautiful city in France

Strasbourg is on the French- German border and, like Colmar, has changed hands many times throughout its history. That’s one of the things that gives this beautiful city its charm.

It’s made up of lots of little islands, caused by the river which flows through it. Grande Ile, the largest island is UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best things to do in Strasbourg

There’s plenty to keep you busy, but some of the best things to do in Strasbourg include:

• Daily show of the astronomical clock at the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral. You can also climb partway up the spire and enjoy incredible views of the Rhine River.
• Wander La Petite France- a historical area famous for its cobbled streets and quaint houses. Walk the nearby covered bridges too.
• Visit Place Kleber- the main square of the town
• See the Palais Rohan

When is the best time to visit Strasbourg?

Out of high season is always a good option but, if you possibly can, you need to visit Strasbourg in December. Strasbourg has one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe and seeing the city at this time of year is just magical. It’s a fantastic mix of French and German influences, so you get the best of both worlds!

Lille- one of the top cities to visit in France

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The pretty city of Lille is a wonderful place to visit in France. The capital of the Hauts-de-France region, there are lots of things to do in Lille from world-class museums and world heritage sites.

When should you visit Lille?

What Lille is best known for, however, is its markets. Home to the largest Christmas market in Northern France, Lille is the place to come during the festive period. The market spans the month of December when over 90 wooden chalets take over Place Rihour selling Christmas gifts and festive food.

But it’s not just Christmas that Lille does well, the city is also home to the largest flea market in Europe. La Grande Braderie de Lille takes place annually on the first weekend of September and attracts more than two million people. This enormous antiques, flea and bric-a-brac street market dates back to medieval times and today attracts more than two million people for the 48-hour event.

What else is there to see in Lille?

Make sure to spend some time touring ‘Vieux Lille’ when you’re here. The ‘old’ part of the city is incredibly pretty, filled with cobbled streets and colourful houses. The buildings painted red and yellow date back to Spanish rule. The best way to explore this part of the city is on a tour with Tradi’Balade who run tours in colourful open-top 2CV tours.

It may be a top city in France, but what about the FOOD?

Once you’ve seen the sights treat yourself to some traditional pastries. The patisserie,  Aux Merveilleux de Fred , is home to ‘Les Petits Merveilleux’, roughly translated as “the little marvels”. These cakes consist of a sandwich of two meringues with whipped cream in the middle, which is then covered in more whipped cream and topped with flavours such as chocolate shavings or nuts. There’s usually a long line out the door but the wait is worth it!

Lyon- a top French city outside of Paris

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Why is Lyon food so famous?

Why is lyon one of the best cities to visit in france, when is the best time to visit lyon, pau- one of the cheapest cities in france.

Pau is a wonderful French city that, in my opinion, is one of the most underestimated cities in France. Not many people outside of France have heard of Pau, which is a shame because it is truly a stunning city.

Pau is located just 80 km away from the Spanish border and it’s also not far away from Biarritz and a famous hiking route in Gavarnie. You can perfectly well combine a trip to Pau with hiking in Gavarnie or with swimming in Biarritz if you’re visiting in summer. Or you can visit it on 3-day Nouvelle Aquitaine road trip

So why is Pau worth visiting?

Pau is a small city off the beaten path in France; its population is only about 80,000 people. What Pau is most famous for is the beautiful Chateau de Pau or Pau Castle that is also the birthplace of Henry IV of France.

You can enjoy stunning views over the Pyrenees, wander around the pretty streets, visit Pau castle, treat yourself to a delicious lunch in one of the restaurants (try Le Canard Royal or Cotes & Mer), or walk the entire Boulevard des Pyrenees and enjoy the sunset!

You’re also really close to the famous Cirque de Gavarnie – a must-visit destination in the Pyrenees and home to Europe’s second-highest waterfall!

When is the best time to visit Pau?

It gets very warm in summer, so make sure to bring light clothes and comfortable shoes! We recommend spending a day or two maximum here, but you can easily see the highlights in half a day if you want. It can get cold in winter, definitely not one of the warmest places in Europe to visit in February , so anytime from Spring to Autumn works best.

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Oh, go on then. You’ve already discovered 10 incredible cities to enjoy that aren’t Paris but, let’s face it, Paris is an amazing city. There is a reason there are so many movies and books set in France which are based here- it’s magical. Here’s a quick guide on why you should add it to your top France cities to visit.

The city is a series of incredible attractions; bursting with unique experiences & things to do. It’s romantic, but – despite what you may think – in a subtle way; you can easily travel here solo and enjoy yourself.

What are the best things to do in Paris?

Highlights of Paris include:

• climbing the Eiffel Tower, the symbol of the city, a crowded attraction for which you will need to purchase skip the line tickets.
• visiting at least the most important museums such as the Louvre and Orsay.
• climbing Montparnasse Tower – in and of itself, it probably is the ugliest building in the city, but the views from there are stunning, even more so because when you are on it, you don’t get to see it!
• Climb up the Arc de Triomphe, another place for incredible views.
• Areas like Marais and Montmartre are best enjoyed on a walk. The first one is the nicest area of Paris, with a fabulous local feel, lovely small cafés and bars and an incredible atmosphere. Montmartre is Paris artistic heart – that’s where artists such as Van Gogh used to live. 

Last but definitely not least, make sure to factor in an extra day for a day trip to the historical palace of Versailles , where the French royal family used to live until the French Revolution in 1789. 

You can never stay too long in this city, but in general,  5 days in Paris  will keep you busy and you won’t have time to get bored. 

TOP TIP: Paris is served by 3 airports – Charles de Gaulle, Orly and Beauvais. The first one is the main airport and well connected to the city by public transportation; Orly is not a bad option, but Beauvais is about an hour north of Paris and a pain to get to unless you have a car. 

When is the best time to visit Paris?

Try to avoid the middle of summer. December is magical when everything is decorated for Christmas, but our favourite time to visit Paris is Autumn- when the leaves are changing colour. It’s beautiful against the stone buildings. (Here are some more great ideas for places to visit in Autumn in Europe .)

So there you have it- 10 of the best cities to visit in France, plus Paris. I hope it’s helped narrow down your choices. Let us know where you end up!

Want to save this post for later? Pin it to your France Travel board

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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13 Most-Visited Attractions In France Outside Paris

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: March 8, 2023  - Last updated: April 4, 2023

Are you looking for some of the most-visited attractions in France outside Paris?

One of the most popular cities in the world, Paris attracts over 33 million visitors every year. The French capital is a central hub for art , fashion , and architecture. People also come to this city to enjoy its gastronomy and experience its culture.

From famous attractions like the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower to simple pleasures like a picnic on the banks of the Seine River, Paris has something for everyone.

RELATED READ: Is Paris Expensive? What You Need To Know (2023)

Paris is also a shopper’s paradise. From the fabulous “Golden Triangle” of haute couture to the big department stores and trendy boutiques, there are plenty of places that shopaholics will love.

While there is no question just how popular the French capital is with tourists, not all France is Paris. There are many other famous attractions in France outside Paris that you should explore when in the country.

Things you'll find in this article

13 Most Visited Attractions In France Outside Paris

1. mont saint-michel, normandy, 2. palace and park of versailles, île-de-france, 3. bordeaux, nouvelle-aquitaine, 4. honfleur, normandy, 5. loire valley, pays de la loire and centre-val de loire, 6. deauville, normandy, 7. carcassonne, occitanie, 8. parc asterix, hauts-de-france, 9. french riviera, provence-alpes-côte d’azur, 10. chamonix-mont-blanc, auvergne-rhône-alpes, 11. fontainebleau, île-de-france, 12. étretat, normandy, travel tips and resources.

Let’s have a look at the famous attractions in France outside Paris in this list.

The Abbey of the Mont Saint-Michel was constructed on a granite rock from the 11th century to the 16th century CE. It is a beautiful Gothic-style Benedictine abbey on the island of Saint-Michel.

The island where the abbey is built on is not only a popular tourist attraction in France but also a renowned center of learning, attracting not only visitors from around the world but some of the greatest minds in Europe as well.

The Mont Saint-Michel is home to 44 residents (including the monks and nuns that reside in the abbey) who welcome about  three million visitors each year.

A former royal residence famed for its lavish rooms, art collection, and splendid gardens, the Palace de Versailles welcomes around 15 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited historic sites in the world and in France.

This famous palace was the principal residence of the French kings starting from the time of Louis XIV until Louis XVI’s. It has been furbished by several generations of architects and lanscape architects, sculptors, and decorators, providing Europe with a model of the perfect royal palace for over a century.

The Palace of Versailles, along with its park, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It is deemed one of the most stellar achievements in French 17th century art.

Outside Paris, Château de Versailles is one of the most visited attractions in France.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a wine person, you should visit Bordeaux for its wine heritage. The city attracts around 6 million plus tourists per year making it one of the most visited major cities in France.

The city of Bordeaux is smaller and more manageable than Paris, ideal for walking around. A UNESCO World Heritage site , it is not only famous for its wine but for its historical monuments and stunning architecture as well.

Bordeaux houses nearly 8,000 wine chateaux that produce around 700 million wine bottles each year.

Situated between vineyards and the ocean, Bordeaux is the gateway to the South West and epitomizes the sweetness of life.

Honfleur is a city in the French region of Normandy , located  on the estuary where the River Seine meets the English Channel.

Famous for its old port that served as an important trading port during the Middle Ages, the city also achieved fame for its main church that’s built with wood, as well as its connection with Impressionist painters, including Eugène Boudin, Gustave Courbet, and Claude Monet .

Honfleur’s old port, Vieux-Bassin, is lined with 16th- to 18th-century town houses that have been painted by these artists , most notably Claude Monet .

Honfleur has preserved its treasure trove of artistic and historic maritime heritage.

Today, some 3.5 million tourists from all over the world visit this city each year, making it one of the most visited cities in France outside Paris.

Dubbed the Garden of France, the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s considered one of the most famous destinations in France.

At least 8 million tourists come to the Loire Valley every year to visit the cities of Orléans and Tours , the charming towns , the exquisite gardens and fairy-tale castles , and the rolling vineyards. Visitors who come here also sample the world-famous wines produced in the Valley. These wines range from vibrant sancerres to sparkling vouvrays.

The Loire Valley is situated in central France’s Loire River. Apart from the abundant produce and wine industry, it is also popular for its vibrant culture.

Normandy welcomes more than 5 million tourists per year; a chunk of which visit the region’s most chic and glamorous seaside resort – Deauville.

Located on the Côte Fleurie of Normandy just a couple of hours from Paris, Deauville has been a fashionable holiday destination since the 19th century.

This French commune is famous for its celebrity boardwalk, American Film Festival, posh casino and golf courses, horse races, and multi-colored parasols on its beautiful golden-sand beaches.

Deauville also offers a wide range of hotel services, luxury shopping, and cultural and athletic events all year round. This is especially good for a short day trip from the French capital.

Carcassonne has been around for nearly 2,500 years. It is located 95 km southeast of Toulouse in the region of Occitanie .

La Cité, Carcassonne’s fortified city within its boundaries, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1997. This is one of the most impressive walled cities in France, surrounded by two massive walls and 53 towers which served to protect Carcassonne during medieval times.

Each period of Carcassonne’s history has left traces on La Cité’s ancient walls, offering guests a chance to enjoy a life-size history book!

A popular tourist city in the Occitanie region, Carcassonne is a famous French destination visited by nearly 3 million people every year.

Just 40 minutes away from Paris, Parc Astérix  is a theme park based on the comic book series Asterix by Albert Uderzo and René Goscinny. The amusement park is situated in Plailly, in the northern French department of Oise.

The park, which has been around since 1989, offers numerous attractions and live shows for your enjoyment – more than 40 of them across the park, so there is something for everyone.

Next to Disneyland Paris , Parc Asterix is the second largest park of its kind in France and also among the most popular. It welcomes around 2.3 million visitors per year.

The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur , is a thriving region with around 2 million inhabitants who welcome an average of between 4 and 5 million annual tourists. The busiest months are between April and September .

Situated along the southern French coast, separating Provence from the Mediterranean Sea, the French Riviera is a collection of seaside resort towns that are popular with tourists both locals and foreigners alike.

The most famous of these is St. Tropez , which used to be a military stronghold, fishing village, and artist colony, but is now a favorite playground for the rich and famous.

The French Riviera is renowned around the globe for its amazing scenery, fantastic climate, gorgeous beaches , medieval villages, boutique shopping, and laid-back lifestyle, as well as its proximity to Italy. The latter is reflected in the local dishes, which which makes the French Riviera an ideal destination for the whole family.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, or just Chamonix, is a resort area near where France, Switzerland, and Italy meet. It is on the base of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe at 15,774 feet.

Chamonix is renowned for skiing . In fact, it boasts one of the world’s most challenging skis and snowboard areas. It is also a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, paragliding, golf, and tennis.

Over 2 million annual visitors come to Chamonix for its pristine natural environment and a wide range of sporting activities.

While Chamonix is not the most expensive resort in the Alps, it is definitely one of the top six luxury ski resorts in Europe.

Fontainebleau is one of the most famous attractions outside Paris, known for the large and scenic forest of Fontainebleau which is a popular weekend getaway for many Parisians . It is about 37 miles southeast of the French capital.

Over 13 million people visit the Forest of Fontainebleau annually for its unusual landscape, which is the result of quartz settling on the ocean floor and eventually becoming the fine sand that blankets the forest ground today.

Fontainbleau is also renowned for the historic Château de Fontainebleau (Palace of Fontainebleau), which is visited by some 300,000 people annually.

The Palace of Fontainebleau is a medieval castle and subsequent palace that once belonged to the famous French kings and emperors – 34 kings and 2 emperors – from Louis VII to Napoleon III. The palace has over 1500 rooms and situated at the heart of 130 acres of parkland and gardens.

Étretat , a small delightful village on the north coast of France, is frequented by visitors for the striking rock formations carved out of its white limestone or chalk cliffs. These cliffs are collectively known as the Étretat Chalk Complex.

The most famous of these cliffs are the L’Aiguille – or the Needle which is a pillar that rises 70 meters up from the sea – and the natural arch called Porte d’Aval. 

The cliffs of Étrerat are so stunning that they inspire countless painters to visit the region and paint them. The cliffside Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde to the north also offers incredible views. You can enjoy Étretat beach more actively as well. Of course, swimming is a very popular activity in the area.

Every year, there are over one million visitors coming to this small coastal village to hike the winding paths that link the beach to the surrounding green hills and admire the famous natural landscape.

13. Dune of Pilat, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

60 km southwest of Bordeaux, in La Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Bay area, you will find the tallest sand dune in Europe. It’s called the Grande Dune du Pilat, or simply the Dune of Pilat. Its current location used to house temporary protohistoric camps for activities connected with sea salt mining.

Attracting more than two million tourists per year, the Dune of Pilat is one of the most famous French tourist destinations outside Paris.

Aside from its amazingly high sand dunes, this attraction also offers great views over the ocean and the forest that goes to the edge of the dune.

It takes about 1.5 hours to walk all the way along the dune, but the effort is worth it especially if you want to witness the best sunset in France. This unique destination is an absolute must-visit that you simply must take in!

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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13 amazing Weekend Getaways from Paris by Train!

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Living in Paris and craving weekend getaways from the City? Or maybe you’re visiting and want to spend a weekend exploring beyond Paris? Discover these fantastic weekend getaways easily accessible by France’s efficient railroad system.

When day trips from Paris just don’t suffice, these escapes offer the perfect solution.

Experience everything from Normandy’s misty fields to Provence’s charming towns, explore various wine regions, or even hop over to a nearby country. This post has a weekend trip tailored to every taste and interest.

You also might be interested in these articles:

• 18 sublime Beaches near Paris France
• Monet’s Garden – visit Giverny from Paris (2023)
• Quick Weekend Guide to Bordeaux, St.Émilion & Arcachon
• 21 Best Day Trips by Train from Paris

Take a memorable weekend getaway from Paris by train

To be honest, even after 16 years of living in France, I still can’t wrap my head around how amazing train travel in France is. Taking a TGV (the French high-speed train) is in fact very often the quickest and most convenient way of transportation and one of my favorite travel tips for the region.

Salut, I am Lena – Travel Planning Expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

Can you even imagine that it takes only 2 hours to travel the 600 km from Paris to Bordeaux ? There are so many easy trips from Paris.

It opens up so many possibilities on overnight trips from Paris, that it’s hard to make a choice about where to travel next. My first-weekend getaway was from Paris to Étretat , a destination I can absolutely recommend, but there is so much more.

The South of France? Well, just bring one of the best underwater cameras to take lots of pictures at the beach. Wine tasting in Bordeaux? Or maybe Christmas shopping in London? Read on to know more about the best Paris weekend trips!

If you have less time, also take a look at our list of fantastic day trips from Paris by train .

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France – Weekend Trips from Pari s

Everyone needs short breaks from Paris from time to time, and this is the best occasion to explore more of France and to get to know the country. A weekend getaway from Paris by train is easy to organize and easy to take, especially if you are looking for quick trips from Paris.

Thanks to the high-speed train, you can even travel to the south of France just for a short weekend break from Paris. I asked around fellow France lovers and assembled this wonderful list of weekend trips from Paris. Which one is your favorite?

#1 Aix-en-Provence

Check out the most popular activities in Aix-en-Provence right away:

• wine tastings and visits to the most beautiful Provencal villages – click here for info
• visit the famous lavender fields of Provence – click here for more info
• explore the scenic Verdon Canyon – click here for more info

Distance and location: 3 hours 5 minutes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best for: art, dining, wine, a “South-of-France-feeling”, and lavender fields

Where to stay:  Maison Alberta  – refurbished apartment right in the center of the old town with balcony, kitchenette, and Wi-Fi

Book your train ticket to Aix-en-Provence here

Meander down the streets of Aix-en-Provence and you will understand why this is one of the best weekend getaways from Paris. This charming town is full of impressive town-house style palaces, and manicured trees. The town is also known as the ‘City of a Thousand Fountains’ , as beautifully carved stone fountains can be found on every corner.

Aix-en-Provence was also once the seat of power and aristocracy in Provence, giving it an opulent character. Sensational farmer’s markets come to life in the streets of Aix-en-Provence throughout the year.

You will find rows of fresh produce, olive products, cheese, bread, flowers, linens, antique finds, and many more. If you’d like to try out a local delicacy , pick yourself up a box of calissons , a diamond-shaped sweet made from almonds and candied melons, covered in icing.

The markets are also a good place if you are looking for budget things to do in Provence because they are wonderful to pick up reasonably priced lunch items and snacks.

Keen on exploring more of the beautiful Provence region? Why not join a Luberon Market & Village tour?

The famous 19th-century post-impressionist painter Paul Cezanne called Aix-en-Provence home. He is a point of pride for the Provencal locals. Visit the Atelier Cezanne where you can view the living conditions of Cezanne’s original house, and how he lived.

As a frequent visitor of Le Terrain des Peintres , Cezanne often used this garden for inspiration. Grab a picnic basket, buy a few ingredients and nibbles at the farmer’s market, and spend the day musing in the park.

Located in the center of Aix-en-Provence is Maison Alberta . This self-catered apartment comes with one spacious bedroom and bathroom, a kitchenette, and free Wi-Fi. Explore everything this beautiful town has to offer right outside your door.

Suggested by Haley of Haley Blackall Travel

Click here to book your entrance tickets for the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley!

Distance and location: 1 hour and 40 minutes, Centre-Val de Loire

Best for: castles, wines, cycling

Where to stay: Clos d’Amboise – located in a 17th-century mansion with a large landscaped garden and a pool, in the center of Amboise.

Book your train ticket to Amboise here

It takes only a short train ride from Paris to Amboise in the Loire Valley. From the train station, just cross the bridge over the Loire River that leads to the charming town of Amboise.

Amboise is immediately recognizable by the château atop a steep hill that rises above the town. Visiting the UNESCO World-Heritage site Château Royal d’Amboise is a must – it has an intriguing history of royalty, death, and deceit and is the resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.

Da Vinci’s home in Amboise, Château du Clos Lucé is another must-see destination in this lovely Loire river town. Interestingly, both castles are connected by an underground tunnel, crossing the Parc Leonardo Da Vinci.

Tip: Save some time and purchase your tickets in advance: Clos Lucé and Château Royal d’Amboise (click the links to get to the vendor’s site)

Amboise also has a large Farmer’s Market, Marché Dominical d’Amboise , in which foodies can easily spend two hours. It’s a great place to try some items from your French food bucket list ! There are also many other castles, an old Clock Tower ( Tour De L’Horloge ), chapels, and old stone churches.

A very popular activity in Amboise is visiting a local wine cave to enjoy a wine tasting with paired food .  If you’re looking for a stay in the Loire Valley for a few days, then Amboise is also a wonderful base for exploring nearby castles such as Château Chenonceau and Château de Chambord. Click here to get more information on this great Loire Valley castle tour!

Thank you, Monique at Trip Anthropologist

Distance and location: 3 hours and 5 minutes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best for : medieval architecture, sightseeing, South-of-France-flair

Where to stay: Le Magnan – for its colorful rooms, the nice garden, and its great location right in the center of the old town of Avignon

Book your train ticket to Avignon from Paris here

Avignon is charmingly set on one of the longest rivers in France – the Rhone. Avignon is almost 700 km away from Paris, so It’s hard to believe that by train, the trip only takes 2.5 hours. The Avignon Train Station is located 10 minutes away from the town center, and busses are running all the time. Once you arrive in Avignon, there are plenty of things to do and see to make your trip worthwhile!

The old town of Avignon has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty and historical importance. It’s filled with historic buildings like the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace), which dates back to the 13th century when it was home to seven different popes over 130 years. There are also tons of smaller attractions like Saint Pierre Cathedral , one of the most beautiful churches in the south of France.

If you’re in the mood for food and wine, the La Fourchette restaurant is a must. They specialize in quality regional French cuisine and have lovely decor, plus Michelin recognizes them for their good cooking.

Avignon is also a great base to explore the beautiful Provence region, with its small villages, vineyards, and magnificent lavender fields.

Thank you, Ania from The Travelling Twins

#4 Bordeaux

Distance and location: 2 hours 7 minutes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

best for: wine, museums, more wine, and architecture

Where to stay:  Hotel Mercure Centre Ville – to be within walking distance from all the attractions and many restaurants

Book your train ticket to Bordeaux from Paris here

Bordeaux is an extremely underrated city in France and should be at the top of your list of places to see from Paris by train. The journey takes around 2,5 hours and is convenient and easy. Bordeaux is a city that is rich in history and culture, which makes it almost the best weekend trip from Paris.

There is a lot to see and do in this beautiful city, and you’ll fall in love with the incredible architecture and historic buildings that make this city so popular among locals and tourists.

Of course, Bordeaux is known for its world-famous wines . The little town of Saint Emilion is one of the most famous wine areas in the world and is located just outside the city of Bordeaux. You can easily reach it by train, and it’s one of the best places to visit to try wines and learn all about the unique wine-making process. For your convenience, you can also simply join a wine tasting tour to Saint Emilion from Bordeaux. Click here for the most popular offers!

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced and centrally located hotel in Bordeaux, check out the Hôtel Mercure Bordeaux Cité Mondiale Centre-Ville . You’ll be within walking distance from all the attractions like the Place de la Bourse or the Quais de Bordeaux and close to lots of different restaurants and bars. Don’t forget to try the delicious Canneles de Bordeaux which are little pastries that are absolutely addicting. 

Thank you, Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Distance and location: 1 hour and 58 minutes, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

best for: gastronomy, street art, sightseeing, roman ruins

Where to stay:  Fourviere Hotel – a delightful boutique hotel with a spa area and sauna and amazing views over Lyon. For a cheaper place to stay, check the Hotel Lyon Charité , very central and full of charme.

Book your train ticket to Lyon here

Lyon is often bypassed by visitors heading from Paris to Provence. Yet, it’s halfway between the two and a world-class city when it comes to beauty and history, and there are many things to do in Lyon . It is one of the easiest short trips from Paris.

Lyon is France’s gastronomical capital, and you could visit for the food alone. It is home to the famous Les Halles Paul Bocuse , and a range of restaurants, from its 17 Michelin-starred establishments to the city’s 22 “official” bouchons, or traditional eating establishments (not to mention all the other restaurants and outdoor markets).

If you are keen on combining a nice sightseeing activity with a foodie experience, check out the Rhône lunch and dinner cruises . They are very popular!

If you’re not a foodie, you can seek out some of the more than 100 giant murals of Lyon , explore the Old Town, take the funicular up to the Fourvière Basilica for a spectacular view from above, check out some of the best museums in Lyon , or discover the city’s “traboules”, the obscure little passageways once used by the city’s silk workers to carry their bolts of cloth to the ships along the river below. Lyon, once the capital of silk, keeps that heritage alive through museums and workshops.

Two more attractions that mustn’t be missed in Lyon: the ultra-modern Musée des Confluences ( click here for tickets ), all about human culture, and at the other end of time, the city’s impressive Roman ruins.

Thank you, Leyla Alyanak from Offbeat France! 

Click here for the reasonably priced Nantes City pass that covers as good as every sight in Nantes!

Distance and location: 1 hour 56 minutes, Loire-Atlantique

Best for sightseeing, history, fun

Where to stay:  Le Pérouse Hotel – for affordable luxury in the heart of the city

Book your train from Paris to Nantes here

One of the most unexpected weekend getaways that are easily accessible from Paris and yet many miss in favor of more popular destinations is the city of Nantes. Located in Western France and not far from the crashing waves of the coast of Brittany, the city is best seen over the course of several days due to the plethora of activities to see and do there.

Check out the Nantes City Card Pass – it’s not too expensive and grants free admission to most of Nantes’ top attractions.

During the Middle Ages, the city was home to the Dukes of Brittany, and today, vestiges of the past can be found throughout the city. One of the most notable landmarks is that of the medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne. Head to the château to wander around the historic ramparts for one of the best views that Nantes has to offer.

Elsewhere in the city, the district that houses the Machines de l’Ile à Nantes is a fun area for all ages on account of the fact that it’s here where visitors will discover fantastical oversized machines that look like giant animals. For a small fee, there’s even the possibility to ride on the back of a mechanical elephant. Other highlights of Nantes include checking out all of the eateries in the largely pedestrianized Bouffay district and snapping photos of the luxurious Passage Pommeraye.

The number of things to do plus the laid-back vibe makes Nantes one of the best 2-day trips from Paris.

The nicest place to stay in Nantes is the four-star Le Pérouse hotel , which offers affordable luxury in the heart of the city.

Thank you, Sophie Nadeau of solosophie.com

Distance and location: 2 hours and 30 minutes, Brittany

Best for: beach, seafood, outdoor activities

Where to stay:  La Maison des Armateurs – perfectly located in the old town of Saint-Malo

Book your train from Paris to Saint-Malo here

St. Malo is a medieval town, rebuilt after World War II, on the northern coast of Brittany . From Paris, it’s easy to get there by train. Depending on the train you catch, it can be a ride as short as two hours thirty from the Montparnasse station.

Located on a strategically important part of the French coast, St. Malo was the place where corsairs and privateers plied the water, searching for treasure in the 16th century and applauded by the king. Walking in the old town, it’s possible to walk the wide ramparts , visit the two forts, Solidor Tower, and of course the spectacular cathedral and beaches.

When the tide is out, it’s popular to walk across two of the nearby islands, Grand Be and Petit Be . Just be sure to head back to town when the alarm sounds, so you don’t get stranded. Other popular things to do include a state-of-the-art Aquarium (get your tickets here ), boat trips to Dinard, or ferries to the British Isles of Guernsey and Jersey . As well as wandering the streets and looking for oysters or galettes (savory crepes) which are famous in this area.

Whether you are just stopping over or spending a few days, you will never forget St. Malo. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in France , with its proximity to wonderful beaches and fishing towns, its views from the ramparts, and its amazing culinary tradition. You will love it.

Thank you, Corinne Vail

#8 Strasbourg

Distance and location: 1 hour 50 minutes, Alsace

Best for: sightseeing, Christmas markets, wine

Where to stay:  Okko Hotels Strasbourg – modern design hotel at the old harbor of Strasbourg, close to historical center

Book your train ticket to Strasbourg here

Strasbourg is without a doubt a perfect place to spend a weekend getaway from Paris. There’s easy enough to do to spend multiple days in this city, and it’s so charming that you’ll instantly feel like on holiday!

During its history, Strasbourg has been part of both France and Germany and therefore, you can clearly see these influences in the city. It is an absolute must to take your time to stroll around the old city center, as the buildings are just so magnificent here! Also, make your way to Neustadt where you can clearly see the German influences in the architecture.

Other great activities are visiting Barrage Vauban , walking around Grande Île, and visiting the impressive gothic cathedral. Strasbourg is also known for its magical Christmas market, the city is even called ‘the Capital of Christmas’! And there’s a good reason for that because the Christmas market of Strasbourg is huge, and the whole city is wonderfully decorated to convey the Christmas atmosphere. You might experience this incredible event when planning your getaway to Strasbourg in December .

During your visit, you can’t go wrong by staying at Okko Hotels S trasbourg Centre. This modern hotel is located in the old harbor of Strasbourg, which has recently been transformed into a hip neighborhood. From there, it’s only a short walk to the city’s historical center, or you can just take the tram which stops next door.

Thank you, Emma from Emma’s Roadmap

Belgium – Weekend Trips from Paris

If you are looking into exploring more of Europe, Belgium is a good start. It’s a great destination if you want to take weekend trips from Paris to other countries and pick some cool Belgium souvenirs . It is actually the closest country to Paris and has many exciting destinations to offer if you are looking for the best overnight trips from Paris.

Distance and location: 2 hours 2 minutes, Flemish Region

best for: art, shopping, architecture, Belgian beer, and fries

Where to stay:  Hampton by Hilton – big rooms centrally located close to the station and with a good breakfast included

Book your train ticket to Antwerp here

Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world , is one of the best weekend getaways from Paris. Located within 400 km, one can easily reach this Belgian city from Paris by train in as few as two hours. The diamond district of Antwerp is where 220 million dollars worth of diamonds is traded daily. But besides being such an important trade hub, Antwerp has a unique multicultural landscape and a rich history.

The best places to explore in Antwerp for free are the Steen Castle, Schedlt river bank, Diamond District, Mier market, and the exquisitely beautiful Antwerp Central station.  These can easily be covered in one day in Antwerp on foot, either on your own or by joining a free walking tour through Antwerp.

Antwerp’s busy skyline is dominated by the 123-meter-tall tower of the Cathedral of our Lady of Victory and various sculptures related to Antwerpian folklore. These include the Brabo’s fountain in the central square and brabo’s hand among others. Besides, one of the best things to do in Antwerp is to visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and St Paul’s church. Take a stroll in the Stadspark and eat your heart out on the foodies’ street.

There are several amazing hostels in the city of Antwerp thanks to the student population. However, one of the best hotels to stay at in Antwerp is Hampton by Hilton  situated near the Antwerp Central station.

Thank you, Sinjana!

Distance and location: 2 hours 36 minutes, West Flanders

Best for:  canals, chocolate, waffles, history

Where to stay:  Hotel Ter Brughe – located along a canal with incredible views of the water

Book your train ticket to Bruges here

Bruges in Belgium is another great destination if you are looking for trips from Paris by train.  Known for its colorful gingerbread houses that dot the historic square of the city, it is easily one of the most picturesque places to see in Europe. Full of medieval buildings, beautiful canals, and cathedrals , Bruge is perfect for a weekend getaway from Paris.

Start your time in Bruges by strolling around Market Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a traffic-free zone in the city, so it is ideal to amble around without a plan and to take in the unique architecture of Bruges. The iconic Belfry tower is also situated here. You can climb the 366 steps to the top and get a unique bird’s eye perspective of the Old town. Next, located a few steps away, is another historic site called Burg Square . This is where you will find the Bruges City Hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and an Old Civil Registry. This Basilica houses Michelangelo’s only sculpture that left Italy before his death. It is a truly noteworthy sight for art lovers.

Located right next to Burg Square, is Go.fre, a popular shop selling Belgian waffles on a stick. They offer many creative toppings and presentations. There are also many chocolate and other waffle shops nearby. The Hotel Ter Brughe is only a few minutes walking distance from this area and a good place to stay in Bruges.

Thanks for the recommendation, Charu from Travel with CG

#11 Brussels

Distance and location: 1 hour 22 minutes, Capital Region

best for: museums, Belgium beer, and chocolate, comic books, and murals

Where to stay:  Hotel Indigo Brussels – beautifully decorated hotel with spacious rooms in an excellent location

Book your train ticket to Brussels from Paris here

Brussels is the easiest capital in Europe to reach by train from Paris, which makes it a great weekend getaway destination or a fantastic part of your one-month Europe itinerary . It’s just a short trip from Paris. But apart from its conveniently close location to Paris, Brussels is also a great destination because of its beautiful attractions and delicious beer and food scene. Click here if beer and food sound interesting to you !

There are so many things to put on your Brussels weekend itinerary . You can marvel at the beautiful buildings in Grand Place, visit the popular Manneken Pis , shop in the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries, see the Royal Palace, and explore your favorite European cities in the Mini Europe Museum .

Once you’re done with sightseeing, an incredible beer, and food scene awaits you. Belgium is known for its many delicious things such as strong golden beer, fluffy warm waffles, and tasty Moules Frites (Mussels with fries), which you can find all over Brussels. So, you’ll have plenty of rainy day activities in Brussels .

Apart from the many attractions and things to eat in Brussels, it’s also a great city to just go get lost in. Brussels city center is full of cobblestone streets, old churches, and several viewpoints, so it will take you more than a weekend to run out of new things to see. To make sure not to miss anything, plan ahead and sign up for one of the popular walking tours through Brussels . You can take the Thalys train directly from Gare du Nord to Bruxelles-Midi in 1 hour and 20 minutes. Just make sure to book your weekend getaway ahead because it’s a popular route that tends to sell out.

Thank you, Cecilie from Worldwide Walkers

Are you looking for things to do in Brussels? Those are the most popular activities:

• 2.5-Hour Belgian Beer Tasting Experience – click here for more info
• Chocolate Workshop and Guided Walking Tour – click here to know more
• Brussels Mini Europe – book your ticket here

United Kingdom – Weekend Trips from Paris

Visiting the UK for a short weekend is probably one of the most exciting weekend trips from Paris by train that you can take. Thanks to the Eurostar train that is crossing the channel, it is unbelievably easy to visit London and explore the UK from there.

Distance and location:  2 hours 19 minutes, England

best for: sightseeing, shopping, museums

Where to stay:  Shangri-La The Shard for a truly amazing experience and once-in-a-lifetime view over London. Alternatively at the DoubleTree by Hilton Tower of London (midrange) or at the Ibis Styles Southwark on the budget range

Book your train ticket for the Eurostar from Paris to London here

London is hands down one of the best weekend trips from Paris by train, simply because in just 2.5 hours, you’ll be in a completely different country. From Paris, take the Eurostar from Gare du Nord, which will take you directly to London’s St. Pancras International Station .

London has a wide variety of activities to offer any traveler ( click here to get an idea ). If you enjoy museums, the Natural History Museum is a must-see and has tons of educational and engaging exhibitions. They also have a photography gallery filled with intriguing wildlife shots.

If you love relaxing in cafés, there are plenty of cute ones around town, from Peggy Porschen to Elan Cafe. If you are an art and theater enthusiast, there are tons of musicals to choose from, from the comical Book of Mormon to the sentimental Come From Away.

Of course, no trip to London would be complete without stopping by the iconic Tower Bridge, Big Ben, or Buckingham Palace , which is the official London residence of the royal family. These landmarks aren’t far from Soho, one of the best foodie neighborhoods in town. Be sure to stop by Palomar or Dishoom to get a taste of the wide range of international cuisine in town and for great evening entertainment, visit one of the secret bars in London !

If you have more time in London or are familiar with the top sights already, there are also many unusual things to do in London. For example, a visit to the Barbican Observatory or what about the Museum of Brands?

If you’re planning a longer trip, there are also plenty of amazing places to visit near London , such as the Cotswolds, Canterbury, and Dorset. For some of the best views in town, stay in Shangri-La The Shard and enjoy dining in the sky.

Thank you, Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

The Netherlands – Weekend Trips from Paris

Thanks to the Thalys train, which connects Paris with cities in Belgium, Germany but also the Netherlands, overnight trips from Paris to the Netherlands are a nice option for a getaway.

#13 Amsterdam

Distance and location: 3 hours 19 minutes, capital of the Netherlands

best for: Museums, coffee, and tea houses, canals, cycling

Where to stay:  Ibis Amsterdam Centre – for affordable comfort in the heart of Amsterdam

Book your train ticket to Amsterdam from Paris here

The capital of the Netherlands is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Paris. The beautiful city is just over 3 hours from Paris by train, making it a quick journey perfect for a long weekend. Amsterdam has plenty to do  to keep you busy during your getaway.

The city has some of the best museums in the world, and you should add at least one to your Amsterdam bucket list. The Rijksmuseum is home to many works by Rembrandt, and the Van Gogh Museum has the largest collection of famous artists’ works in the world. History buffs shouldn’t miss the Anne Frank House , where you can visit the actual house where Anne and her family hid during World War II.

With its picturesque canals and unique architecture, Amsterdam is one of the prettiest cities in Europe. You can easily spend hours roaming around the city, admiring the canals and historic buildings. For a unique perspective of the city, consider taking a canal tour , where you’ll learn more about the history of Amsterdam while cruising along its waterways. Click here for more information on schedules and prices.

Amsterdam is the perfect city to sample Dutch Cuisine. The Albert Cuyp Market is a great place to try all kinds of different foods, including raw herring, poffertjes, and fresh, warm stroopwafels. Getting to Amsterdam from Paris is simple – just take the Thalys from Paris Nord to Amsterdam Centraal. The Ibis Amsterdam Centre  is a great budget-friendly hotel close to Amsterdam’s top attractions.

Thank you, Sydney from A World in Reach

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Ten Places to Travel Outside Paris

Wanting to get out of the city for a romantic getaway weekend? Planning a girls day trip? We’ve rounded up the ten best places to travel outside of Paris–places that aren’t too far and easily accessible. Get the best French getaways by visiting these charming locations – so close to the city, and rich with history – on your next trip to Paris!

Just about an hour on the RER outside of Paris, this smaller town is one of the oldest in France! Its main attraction is its cathedral (also called Notre Dame) that’s been there since the twelfth century. It’s truly like stepping back in time. Plus, the town is full of shops and delicious spots to eat. It’s the perfect place for a girl’s weekend!

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About two hours away from Paris is the Champangé commune, which envelops small towns in the northwest of France like Reims. Unsurprisingly, this is the area where champagne comes from! Take a wine or champagne tasting tour, visit Reims cathedral, or visit the castle of Sedan, one of the largest in Europe.

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Only 40 euros by train and two hours away from Paris is lovely Bordeaux, a small town on the water. This area is the perfect one to visit a vineyard, but if you’re not a wine lover there are plenty of museums and other things to see in the city!

GET YOUR BORDEAUX CITY GUIDE HERE: enjoy local and authentic Bordeaux with my e-book

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A little closer to Paris is Versailles, home to none other than Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles. However, you don’t have to visit Versailles the way a typical tourist might! Try a bike trip with Bike About Tours!

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Disneyland Paris

If you have kids or even if you’re just a kid at heart, Disneyland is a great place to spend a day. This time of year, it’s always seasonally decorated so if you’re wanting to get into the holiday spirit, this is the place for you!

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Just about two hours from Paris, Giverny was home to Claude Monet for a period of time. If you’re a fan of impressionism, you can see some of his work in a small museum dedicated to the Impressionist movement or visit his house while you’re there!

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Mont Saint-Michel

Off the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is a small island that boasts a small town and the Gothic church that partially inspired the castle in the 2010 animated film Tangled . From Paris, the RER train ride is about five hours, but the view once you get there is most definitely worth it.

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Normandy itself is a great place to visit, situated in the North of France and about two and a half hours away from Paris. Not only can you visit Mont Saint-Michel, but you can also visit the beaches of Normandy, stormed during World War II and the memorial to those that died. The town itself and the views are enough to merit this trip.

Loire Valley

Once home to those such as Leonardo da Vinci, the Loire Valley is situated in central France, about two hours away from Paris. Visit the Chateau de Chambord or the Chateau de Chenonceau before stopping at one of the many vineyards famous to the Loire.

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Chateau de Fontainebleau

About an hour outside of Paris is Chateau de Fontainebleau, one of the best spots we can think of to take an Instagram picture. This is a great place to spend a day with your girls!

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Whether you’re with the girls or wanting a romantic getaway, we hope we’ve given you some inspiration for your next excursion outside the city!

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8 places in France you need to visit beyond Paris

Do you dream of traveling to France so that you can see Paris? We totally get it! While a trip to Paris is always a good idea, there are countless places beyond the City of Light that shine. France is a wonderful country to explore because of the variety of cities, towns, and villages that you can visit based on your interests—there’s always something exciting to discover in the most popular tourist sites outside of Paris.

Take it from travel Josef. “While most travelers in France see only Paris, there is so much more to this country,” he said. “The castles, the churches, the green countryside, the medieval towns with their narrow streets and architecture, the food, the wine, and the people were a wonderful experience.”

If you’re asking yourself where to go in France besides Paris, read on to see eight of the best places to visit in France that seamlessly complement a trip to the capital city—or make for an immersive trip all on their own.

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Top 10 Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris

Posted on February 6, 2020 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on October 21, 2023

France is a wonderful country with tons of places to visit, whether you like nature, culture, history, cities and so on, you’ll always find something to your taste. Paris is France’s main destination, but where to go once you’ve visited it or if you simply don’t like being surrounded by hordes of tourists? Check out these great alternatives and top cities to visit in France, perfect for a second trip to France, a French road trip , or if you want to go beyond Paris and discover more of France.

Apart from Toulouse and Nice in Southern France, you can visit all of the other cities listed below as a day trip from Paris.

Keep on reading to discover the top 10 places to visit in France outside of Paris and where to go in France besides Paris!

Travel tip: before any international trip, make sure you get good travel insurance .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Related Article – The top trendy restaurants in Paris

Where to go in France besides Paris

France’s fourth biggest city, Lille is believed to have been founded in 640 by two giants. The first written evidence of the city dates back to 1066, but the city only became part of France in 1667. Lille historic center is proof of the city’s rich past and is an architectural gem. For all the beauty of the historic center, Lille is the perfect blend of traditions and modernity.

Best places to visit in Lille

There are tons of places to visit in Lille , some, part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, most of them located in the Vieux Lille (Old Lille). Here are the city’s main attractions:

• Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille (Palace of Fine Art): One of France’s biggest museums, set in a beautiful edifice from the 19th century, it showcases masterpieces from most of Europe major artists.
• Musée des Canonniers Sédentaires de Lille (Sedentary Gunners Museums): set in an ancient convent, this museum features artifacts from the Sainte Barbe Brotherhood.
• Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse: an ancient hospital founded in the 13th century in the Flemish architectural style.
• Pasteur Institute Museum: a blend of a House Museum and a science museum, showcasing science objects from all periods.
• Charles de Gaulle House: If you’re a history buff you can visit the house where Charles de Gaulle was born and grew up.
• Natural History Museum
• Lille’s Churches: Saint-Etienne, Saint-André, Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, Saint-Maurice, Notre-Dame de la Treille, Sainte-Catherine.
• The city doors: Porte de Roubaix, Porte de Paris and Porte de Gand.
• The ancient fortifications: the citadel and the Fort du Réduit.
• Beffroi de L’Hôtel de Ville: a huge tower from which you’ll get a panoramic view of the city.

The city’s Tourism Office offers walking tours in English of the Historic Center every Saturday at 10:15 AM (13 euros). The tour starts in front of the Rihour Palace.

What to eat in Lille

The local dishes you must try are the Welsh (beer-marinated bread, grilled with ham, mustard, and cheddar) and the Cramique, a type of sweet bread (you’ll find the best ones at the Boulangerie Brier).

How to get to Lille

From Paris Nord train station, a TGV train will take you in under 1 hour to Lille, so you can even just go as a day-trip from Paris.

Reims is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral that’s definitely worth a look as well as the whole historic part of town. Reims is one of France’s oldest city, it used to be an important place during the Gallic period, even before the Roman conquest. Traces of all the civilizations that passed through the city can still be found, making Reims a great place if you like history and architecture.

Best places to visit in Reims

• Gallo-Roman vestiges: the cryptoporticus and the Mars Door.
• Museums : Fine Arts Museum, Saint-Rémi Museum (UNESCO), Hôtel Le Vergeur Museum.
• Churches: Saint-Rémi Basilica (UNESCO), Sainte-Clotilde Basilica, Cathedral of Our-Lady (UNESCO), Saint Jacques Church.
• Landmarks: the Carnegie library, the opera, Bourlingrin Halls, Tau Palace (UNESCO).

For more information, you can check out the Reims Tourism Office’ s website .

What to eat in Reims

Reims is a city recognized for its gastronomy, you will find 5 Michelin-starred restaurants and plenty of cheaper alternative. The best place to try local food is the Bourlingrin market (Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays morning).

Local delicacies include the Jambon De Reims (Reims’ ham) and the Biscuit Rose or Rose cookie (rose as the color, not the flower), you can find the best ones at the Maison Fossier, it can be eaten alone or dipped in a cup of champagne. Reims being at the heart of the Champagne region, you cannot miss the opportunity to drink Champagne. If you spend a few days in Reims, you can also visit a vineyard (or a couple).

H ow to get to Reims

From Paris Est train station a TGV will take directly to Reims’ city center in 45 minutes.

A medieval city, Metz is full of historic landmarks that are worth having a look at. Strolling around the historic center, passing through paved streets and gothic edifices, a visit to Metz makes for a great day-trip from Paris. You can also spend a few days and explore the stunning Lorraine region or nearby Luxembourg.

Main places to visit in Metz

• Museums: Pompidou Center (contemporary art museum), Cours-d’Or Museum (splendid edifice featuring archaeological, medieval and fine arts exhibits).
• Churches: Saint-Etienne Cathedral (one of the highest gothic edifices in Europe), Temple Neuf, Templars Chapel (a perfect blend of Roman and Gothic architecture), Saint-Maximin Church, Saint-Pierre-Aux-Nonnains Church (Metz’s oldest edifice), Récollets Cloister.
• Landmarks: Opera-Theatre (the oldest one in France), Saint-Louis Plazza, the Arsenal (a military building built by Napoleon the third and turned into a cultural center), Porte des Allemands (what’s left of the medieval ramparts), the Train Station, Foch Avenue.

Metz Tourism Office has put together an app so you can visit the city and its surroundings on your own. It’s in English and it doesn’t require the internet once it’s downloaded. Download it here on the App Store or here on Google Play.

What to eat in Metz

You probably already know the region’s most typical dish: the Quiche Lorraine, a dish you absolutely need to try in Metz. On the sweet side, the region makes France’s best mirabelles (small yellow plums), so try a mirabelle pie or any deserts with it. They also make a great Mirabelle liquor.

How to get to Metz

From Paris Est train station you can catch a TGV to Metz, it takes around one hour and a half.

Strasbourg is a unique city in France, its architecture is so different and so beautiful, it would be one of my top picks for cities to visit in France. Just walking around, along the canals, one can’t get tired of looking at the traditional houses and buildings. Strasbourg Historic Center is known as La Grande Ile (the Big Island) and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of things to do in Strasbourg to keep you busy for a few days but you can also just plan a day trip from Paris.

Best places to visit in Strasbourg

• Museums: Alsacian Museum, Vodou Castle, Pays du Hanau Museum.
• Churches : Strasbourg Cathedral (a jewel of gothic architecture), Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune Church, Saint-Thomas Church.
• Landmarks: Kammerzell House, Rohan Palace, the Neubau, Kleber Plaza, Broglie Plaza, Republic Plaza, the Military Governor’s Hotel.
• Neighborhoods: La Grande Ile, the Quartier des Meuniers (millers’ quarters), the Neustadt (build by the Prussians after they annexed the region in the 20th century), the European Quarter.

What to eat in Strasbourg

Alsacian gastronomy is recognized as excellent all over France, the famous Choucroute is one of its emblems (cabbage and sausages, you can get a vegetarian option). The best type of restaurants to try local dishes are the Winstubs you’ll easily find in the historic center. You shouldn’t either miss the wine, one of the region’s specialties.

How to get to Strasbourg

From Paris Est Train station catch a TGV to Strasbourg, you’ll be there under 2 hours.

Rich in history, Dijon used to be the capital of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy and is one of the top cities to visit in France. The historic center is incredibly well preserved and full of spectacular edifices. Make sure to stop at the tourism office where they’ll give you a walking tour map.

Main places to visit in Dijon:

• Museums: Fine Art Museum, Archaeological Museum of Dijon (set in the ancient Saint-Bénigne Abbey), Sacred Art Museum, Rude Museum (François Rude’s sculptures, set in an ancient church), Magnin National Museum (private art collection set in a beautiful palace).
• Churches: Chapelles des Élus, Saint-Philibert Church, Notre Dame Church, Saint-Bénigne Cathedral, Saint-Michel Church.
• Landmarks : Burgundy States and Dukes Palace, Bretagne de Blancey Hotel, Sassenay Hotel, Berbisey Hotel, Coeur de Roy Hotel, Philippe-Le-Bon Tower, Moise’s Well, and the Champnol Charterhouse.

What to eat in Dijon

We all know Dijon Mustard, and if you want to learn more about it or even learn to make it, head to the Moutarderie Fallot, the only place where they still make it the traditional way. Gingerbread is also a local delicacy, you should try the Nonettes, cookies made with gingerbread, orange marmalade, and honey.

If you like cheese, try the Époisse, made with cow milk and refined with grape eau-de-vie.

Typical main dishes would be the Oeufs en Meurette (eggs served with a wine sauce), the famous beef Bourguignon, Bourguignon-style snails (snails cooked in butter, parsley, and garlic).

How to get to Dijon

From Paris Gare de Lyon, take a TGV to Dijon, you’ll be there in less than 2 hours.

Lyon is known for its Light Festival (Festival des Lumières) which takes place every year at the beginning of December. All of the city’s main buildings are illuminated with intricate designs. Even if you can’t make it to the festival, Lyon is still worth a look. Lyon is a vibrant city where you’ll find something to do to anyone’s taste. From monuments and museums to nightlife and gastronomy, the city has it all.

Lyon’s origin date back to the Gallo-Roman period, walking in the Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), you’ll be able to see traces of all the civilization that passed through the city. Most of Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best places to visit in Lyon

• Museums: Confluences Museum (world-renown contemporary museum), Fine Art Museum (set in an abbey from the 17th century), Lyon History Museum, Lumière Museum.
• Churches: Fourvière Basilica, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, Saint-Nizier Church, Saint-Bruno-les-Chartreux Church, Saint-Bonaventure Church, Temple du Change.
• Landmarks: the Traboules (passageways to go from one street to another, through buildings), the Roman theater, the Trois Gaulles Amphitheater, the Aqueducts, Tony Garnier Murals, Thomassin House, Chamarier House.

What to eat in Lyon

Deli meat is the city’s main specialty from Rosette to Brioched Saucisson, you’ll find all types of dry ham and such. Another typical dish is the Salade Lyonnaise (lettuce with lards and a poached egg). If you like cheese you should try the Saint-Marcelin. On the sweet side try the Praline Pie, it’s unique and delicious.

How to get to Lyon

From Paris Gare de Lyon take a TGV to Lyon, you’ll be there in under 2 hours.

Nice is one of the top cities to visit in Southern France . It’s a great city and the door to the Province region. Apart from visiting the city, there are tons of easy day trips you can take from Nice and lots of things to do nearby, involving incredible landscapes and unique experiences.

The city’s origins date back to antiquity, strolling around the city center you’ll be able to see how traditions and modernity blend perfectly.

Main places to visit in Nice

• Museums: Terra Amata Prehistory Museum (important site where the first traces of fire domestication were found), Asian Arts Museum, Matisse Museum (set in a 17th-century villa), Masséna Museum, Naive Art Museum. Fine Art Museum, Lascaris Palace, Cimiez Archaeological Museum, Natural History Museum.
• Churches: Saint-Martin Church, Notre-Dame Basilica, Sainte-Rita Church, Chapelle de la Miséricorde, Sainte-Réparate Cathedral, Russian Orthodox Church.
• Landmarks: Saint-François Square, the Mediterranean Palace, Mont Alban Fort, Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), Rossetti Square, Prefecture Palace, Régina Hotel, Cours Saleya, Promenade des Anglais, Opera, Negresco Hotel.

If you are there between mid-June and mid-August, make sure to visit one of the nearby lavender fields .

What to eat in Nice

Salade Niçoise needs no introduction, you definitely have to try the original one when you’re in Nice. You should also try Socca, a type of pizza with the dough made of chickpea flour, and the Pissaladiere, a type of quiche.

How to get to Nice

From Paris Gare de Lyon you can catch a TGV to Nice, it takes 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from most major European cities.

Related article – Most romantic European destinations for couples

Nicknamed the pink city, Toulouse is a bubbly student city where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants, and an interesting cultural scene. Toulouse is the door to the Occitanie region, which will allow you to witness a different culture and traditions.

Main places to visit in Toulouse

• Museums: Bemberg Museum (Renaissance and Impressionism museum set in the city’s most beautiful mansion), Le Chateau d’Eau (photography exhibits), Compagnonnage Museum, Saint-Raymon Archaeological Museum, Georges-Labit Museum, Vieux-Toulouse Museum.
• Churches: Saint-Sernin Basilica, Saint-Etienne Cathedral, Jacobins Convent, Saint Jerome Church, Notre Dame de la Dalbade, Carmelites Chapel.
• Landmarks: Assezat Hotel, Pont Neuf, Archives Tower, the Capitole, Roman Amphitheater, Bernuy Hotel.

What to eat in Toulouse

Deli meat is a local delicacy, you’ll find the best one at the market, try the Jambon de porc noir de Bigorre (Bigorre Black Porc Ham), the Toulouse sausage and the Goose Foie Gras. On the sweet side try Fenetra (almond and lemon cake) and Violettes candies.

How to get to Toulouse

You can catch a TGV from Paris Montparnasse that will take you to Toulouse in 4 hours, There are slower one leaving from Paris Gare de Lyon.

Bordeaux is a top city to visit in France. Famous for its delicious wine, the city has a lot to offer as a tourist destination. Getting lost in the UNESCO historic center’s small streets, visiting museums and centuries-old churches, trying the local delicacies, you’ll fall in love with Bordeaux.

Main places to visit in Bordeaux

• Museums: Aquitaine Museum, Fine Arts Museum. Bernard Magrez Cultural institute (set in a beautiful 18th-century mansion), Ethnography Museum, La Cité du Vin (Wine Museum).
• Churches: Sainte-Croix Abbey, Flèche Saint-Michel, Annonciade Convent, Notre Dame Church, Saint-Seurin Basilica, Saint-Pierre Church.
• Landmarks: Grosse Cloche (the Big Bell), Cailhau Door, Rohan Palace, Bourse Square, Pey Berland Tower, Gallien Palace, Tourny alleys.

What to eat in Bordeaux

Of course, one of Bordeaux’s main specialty is wine, try to visit a vineyard if you can or go to a wine tasting. You’ll also find some of the best oysters there as well as delicious beef, with the famous rib steak served with its Bordelaise sauce. For dessert, you cannot miss the Canelé, one of my favorite French sweet, you’ll find the best ones at Baillardran or La Toque Cuivrée.

How to get to Bordeaux

From Paris Montparnasse, you can catch a train that will take you to Bordeaux in 2 hours.

Tours is mostly left aside by international tourists and they’re missing on something great. Less than an hour away from Paris, the city has a lot to offer. The historic center is stunning and the gastronomy delicious. Tours it’s also a good base camp to visit the many nearby castles, and you might even want to experience spending the night in one of the castles along the Loire River.

Main places to visit in Tours

• Museums: Fine Arts Museum (set in the Archevêques Palace), Compagnonnage Museum.
• Churches: Saint-Gatien Cathedral, Saint-Julien Church, Saint-Martin Basilica.
• Landmarks: Rue Colbert (from the Middle Age), rue de la Scellerie (antiques’ shops, book shops…), Grand Théatre, Beaune-Semblançay Hotel and its fountain, Rue Nationale, Plumereau Square, Saint-Pierre-le-Puellier garden, Tristan House, Charlemagne Tower, rue des Halles.

What to eat in Tours

Like most typical dishes in France, local delicacies include meat and cheese. The first ones you should eat are the Rillettes de Tours (a type of paté), the Rillions (spiced pork confit), and the Andouillete (sausage). For the cheese, you can’t miss the Sainte-Maure (goat cheese). On the sweet side, try the Nougat de Tours (a cake), the Fouace de Rabelais (brioche), and the Poire Tapée (which translates to beaten pear).

How to get to Tours

From Paris Montparnasse, you can catch a TGV that will take you to Tours in about an hour.

Tips for visiting France’s top cities

• Make sure you take a TGV train, the others can take twice as much time;
• Book your train ticket in advance , it will be cheaper in most cases;
• Make sure to book your accommodation in advance as well;
• Always stop at the tourist office, they can recommend the best places to visit, the best restaurants and so on, and they often organize guided visits;
• Learn some French;
• Watch a few movies set in Paris or France;
• Pack comfortable shoes as you’ll have to do a lot of walking;
• Most of the cities in France have some kind of city pass you can buy at the tourism office;

Some French vocabulary to know when visiting France’s top cities

• Bonjour – Hello
• Merci – Thank you
• S’il-vous-plaît – Please
• Pardon – Sorry
• (Est-ce-que) vous parlez anglais? – Do you speak English?
• Je ne comprend pas – I don’t understand
• Je ne parle pas français – I don’t speak French
• Où est…? – Where is…?
• Je voudrais… – I would like
• Combien ça coûte? – How much does it cost?

Related articles to help you plan your trip to France:

• Best castle s to visit in France
• Stunning landscape from France you must see
• Best French food you need to try

Like it? Save it for later – Top cities to visit in France:

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The best places to visit in France outside of Paris

Discovering france beyond paris: top destinations to explore.

Ah, Paris! The City of Light has undeniably charmed countless travelers with its iconic Eiffel Tower, world-class museums, and café-lined boulevards.

But venture beyond the French capital, and you’ll discover a vast and diverse country brimming with historic sites, natural wonders, and culinary delights.

Here are some of the best places to visit in France outside of Paris.

1. Provence: Rolling lavender fields, sun-drenched vineyards, and historic towns define this enchanting region in southeastern France. Wander through the vibrant markets of Aix-en-Provence, explore the Roman ruins of Nîmes, or drive the scenic coastal routes of the Calanques National Park.

2. The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur): Synonymous with glamour, the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast boasts cities like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Dive into the turquoise waters, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, or rub shoulders with the rich and famous at the annual Cannes Film Festival.

3. Loire Valley: Dotted with over 300 châteaux, the Loire Valley is a testament to France’s regal past. Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise are just a few must-visit castles. Beyond the architecture, the region is renowned for its wines, especially whites like Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc.

4. Normandy: This northern region, with its rugged coastline and pastoral landscapes, played a pivotal role in World War II. Visit the poignant D-Day beaches, the stunning cliffs of Etretat, and the picturesque port of Honfleur. Don’t forget to sample the regional Camembert cheese and cider!

5. Bordeaux: Wine aficionados, rejoice! Bordeaux is a haven for some of the world’s best wines. Tour the esteemed vineyards of Médoc and Saint-Émilion, and immerse yourself in the city’s neoclassical architecture and burgeoning culinary scene.

6. Alsace: Nestled between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine river, Alsace is a blend of French and German influences. Its half-timbered houses, Strasbourg’s Gothic cathedral, and scenic wine route make it a favorite among travelers. Delight in the regional specialties like flammekueche and gewürztraminer wine.

7. Corsica: Often dubbed the “Isle of Beauty”, this Mediterranean gem boasts a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and beaches. Hike the legendary GR20 trail, explore the historic town of Bonifacio, and relax on the pristine beaches of Calvi and Porto-Vecchio.

8. Dordogne: This region, rich in prehistoric sites, is a gateway to the past. Visit the Lascaux caves with their Paleolithic paintings, paddle along the Dordogne River, and relish the region’s foie gras and truffles.

9. Annecy: Often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps”, Annecy charms with its canals, medieval old town, and the stunning Lake Annecy. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, paragliding, and swimming.

10. Champagne: The birthplace of the eponymous bubbly drink, Champagne beckons with its verdant vineyards, historic cellars, and, of course, champagne tasting tours. Explore Reims and its Gothic cathedral, and toast to your travels in Épernay.

In conclusion, while Paris is undoubtedly a jewel in France’s crown, the country offers so much more for the discerning traveler.

Each region is a world unto itself, promising unique experiences, flavors, and memories.

So, the next time you’re planning a French trip, consider venturing beyond the capital to discover the myriad wonders that await. Bon voyage!

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Home > Side Trips from Paris > These Are the Best Small Towns Near Paris that You Cannot Miss!

These Are the Best Small Towns Near Paris that You Cannot Miss!

Explore the french countryside near paris.

Paris is a great city, with many exciting things to see and do. But it can also be a busy and crowded city, and after some days of sightseeing from dawn till dusk, you may need a break.

Luckily, the countryside near Paris is stunning, and there are many picturesque small towns near Paris perfect for getting out in the fresh air and seeing a different side of France. Most of these small towns and villages near Paris make excellent day trips by train.

So if you are doing great visiting Paris and have an extra day in the city, why don’t you give a chance to some of these cute towns? Here’s the list of the best small towns near Paris to visit during your next trip to the French capital. The list also includes a couple of suggestions on where to stay outside Paris with direct train connections to the city.

READ MORE: Click here for the best weekend getaways from Paris by train

Best Way to Explore the Paris Countryside

1. By Train

Most of the Paris countryside is easily reached by train. SNCF , the French rail network, links all the cities and main towns and villages in rural France.

Generally, trains are on time, comfortable, relatively cheap, and my favorite way to explore the best towns outside of Paris. If you are also concerned about your carbon footprint and want to reduce it, trains are the best way to go around – Check out this guide to France by Train

2. By Guided Tour

A guided tour is not the cheapest option, but it is definitely the most comfortable. Forget about planning, entrance tickets, or train schedules; just hop on a coach or minivan and enjoy your day!

Usually, guided tours include transportation, skip-the-line tickets (when applicable), and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, making the place or attraction even more enjoyable. Also, half-day guided tours are perfect for people with short holidays in Paris but who still want to see more than the French capital.

Best Guided Tours to Visit the Paris Countryside

Cars are the best option for exploring the countryside near Paris, especially the villages that are a bit off the beaten path – Check out this quick guide to driving in France

If you need to rent a car, I recommend choosing a car rental office located on the outskirts of Paris. They usually have better prices, and you avoid the hassle of driving through the city. You can reach the rental office by metro and avoid the traffic jams in Paris!

I use and recommend DiscoverCars.com . DiscoverCars compares 900 companies at over 53,000 locations to guarantee you the best price. Click here for our best tips for renting a car in France .

Map of the Best Small Towns Near Paris to Visit

Click here to view this map of small towns near Paris on Google

TIP: I listed these small towns to visit near Paris by region. Click here to read more about the regions of France.

Best Towns Near Paris (Ile-de-France Region)

Provins is one of the best medieval towns near Paris to visit. It is located 70 km southeast of Paris and it makes a great day trip from Paris by train.

In Medieval times, Provins was the capital of the powerful Counts of Champagne. Thanks to the Counts’ protection and its strategic location, the town became one of the main actors in the early development of international trade fairs and the wool industry in Europe during the 9th to 18th centuries.

Walking around medieval Provins is like stepping back in time! The town is surrounded by impressive walls, and the half-timbered houses are beautiful to see. Provins is especially known for its medieval fair , usually held in June, and unique underground galleries that you can visit with a guided tour.

What to Do in Provins:

• Sightseeing
• Provins’ Medieval Fairs and Medieval Christmas Market

HOW TO GO FROM PROVINS TO PARIS

By Train: Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de l’Est train station to Provins (1 hr 22 min, hourly).

By Car:  Paris to Provins is a 91 km drive which takes around 1 hr 13 min, depending on the traffic.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

There’s so much to see and do in Provins that it may be a good idea to spend one night in this beautiful medieval town – Click here for the best hotels in Provins

2. Versailles

Versailles is one of the best small cities near Paris, world-renowned for its magnificent Château . It is located 21 km southwest of Paris, in the region of Ile-de-Franc e.

If this is your first visit to Versailles, I recommend visiting the Château , but you can also decide to spend all your time exploring the Gardens of Versailles or other parts of the city.

The list of the best things to do in Versailles , apart from the Château, includes the King’s Kitchen Garden , the Academy of Equestrian Arts , the Carriage Museum , and the Chuch of Notre Dame . The local market, not far from the château, is also fun to explore.

What to Do in Versailles:

• Versailles by bike , boat riding in the Grand Canal
• Fountains of Versailles shows
• Classic music concerts

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO VERSAILLES

All the ways, public and private, to travel from Paris to Versailles

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO VERSAILLES

Get the most out of your day in Versailles with this top-rated tour with a private guide and transportation . Visit the Palace of Versailles and the Trianons with an expert guide and stroll through the impressive gardens.

There’s so much to see and do in Versailles Estate that it may be a good idea to spend one night on-site, especially if you want to visit the Saturday night Fountain Show – Click here for the best hotels near Versailles Palace

3. Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is a cute town near Paris with a lovely historical center. Located 25km southeast of Paris in the Ile-de-France region, Fontainebleau is surrounded by the large Forest of Fontainebleau.

For many centuries, the Forest of Fontainebleau was the French Kings’ favorite hunting place, and they built a magnificent castle to get the most out of Fontainebleau.

The Château de Fontainebleau is one of the best castles near Paris . Known as “the true home of the French Kings,” its different rooms and halls are grand and magnificent! After visiting the Château, explore the surrounding gardens and the Old Town.

What to Do in Fontainebleau:

• Château de Fontainebleau and Gardens
• Hiking and bouldering in the Fontainebleau Forest
• Hot air balloon over the Fontainebleau Forest

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO FONTAINEBLEAU

By Train:  Direct trains Paris – Fontainebleau leave from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon train station (40 min, every 20 min). Once you arrive at Fontainebleau train station, a bus shuttle waits outside to reach the Château (12 min ride).

By Car: Paris to Fontainebleau is a 69 km drive which takes around 48 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO FONTAINEBLEAU

This Fontainebleau + Vaux-le-Vicomte guided tour is a great option. This tour visits two of the most beautiful castles near Paris with explanations by an English professional guide. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and skip-the-line entrance tickets for both châteaux.

4. Barbizon

Barbizon is a cute village near Paris, nestled in the Forest of Fontainebleau. Barbizon is located 60km southeast of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Barbizon was home to the “Barbizon School,” a group of 19th-century French painters, including Théodore Rousseau and Jean-François Millet. This movement was born from certain artists’ wishes to represent unspoiled nature.

After visiting Château de Fontainebleau, Barbizon is a lovely place to go for a good meal followed by a stroll. Admire its charming stone houses, restored inns, and workshops. Enjoy its flowery walls and the heady smell of turpentine. Art lovers will enjoy the Barbizon School Museum, Millet’s studio, and numerous art galleries.

The Auberge Ganne is where penniless painters without money often shared the same rooms and drew on the walls to perfect their lines. The evenings in this modest inn always ended up late, with everybody heavily drunk. Even today, visitors can immerse themselves in this era which saw the birth of the very idea of ​​the romantic painter in search of pure and beautiful nature.  

What to Do in Barbizon:

• Eat & Drink
• Biking and hiking

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO BARBIZON

By Train + Bus:  Direct trains Paris – Fontainebleau leave from Paris Gare de Ly o n to Fontainebleau-Avon train station (40 min, every 20 min). Once you arrive at Fontainebleau train station, take bus #21 to Angelus (22 min ride).

Fontainebleau, it’s a mere 10km bike ride to Barbizon (one way). You can rent a bike in Fontainebleau.

By Car: Paris to Fontainebleau is a 70 km drive which takes around 40 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO BARBIZON

This Fontainebleau + Barbizon full-day private guided tour is a great option. The tour includes pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Paris, transportation in a luxury van, a professional guide, and entrance tickets to the Château of Fontainebleau.

5. Moret-Sur-Loing

If you are interested in beautiful villages near Paris far from the tourist circuits, you’ll love Moret-sur-Loing . Moret is located on the eastern side of the Fontainebleau Forest, 77km southeast of Paris in the Ile-de-France region.

One of the cutest villages near Paris to visit, Moret-sur-Loing has a beautiful medieval heritage and a couple of interesting museums. It is also an excellent place for outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, or hiking.

Moret-sur-Loing was home to the impressionist painter Alfred Sisley, who found in Moret the source of inspiration for many of his masterworks. The Tourism Office in Moret offers a self-guided walking tour itinerary to see all the spots that inspired the painter.

Things to Do in Moret Sur Loing:

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO MORET-SUR-LOING

By Train:  Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de Lyon to Moret-Veneux-Les Sablons train station (48 min, every 30 min). Once you arrive at Moret-Veneux-Les Sablons train station, there is a 15-minute walk to Moret-sur-Loing.

By Car: Paris to Moret-sur-Loing is a 77 km drive which takes around 58 min, depending on the traffic.

6. Auvers-sur-Oise

If you are looking for beautiful towns around Paris with some history, Auvers-sur-Oise is the place to go. Auvers-Sur-Oise is located 35 km north of Paris and is known as the Impressionists’ Village because it attracted many artists by the end of the 19th century. People like Cézanne, Pissarro, Sisley, and Monet lived or frequented Auvers-Sur-Oise and painted the village in some of their masterworks.

But most of all, Auvers-Sur-Oise is known for being Vincent Van Gogh’s last home.  Van Gogh discovered Auvers by the end of his life, and although he lived in the village for less than two months, he painted 70 works in Auvers, most of them related to the village and its landscapes.

Here, there is a lovely self-guided walk, The Painters’ Pathway , which visits several views appearing in some Impressionist paintings. You can also see the room at Auberge Ravoux , where Van Gogh lived and passed away, the famous Church at Auvers, and Van Gogh’s tomb in the local cemetery.

What to Do in Auvers-sur-Oise

• Nature walks
• A special place for Van Gogh’s fans!

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO AUVERS-SUR-OISE

By Train:  Trains from Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise leave from Paris Gare du Nord. It is a 41-minute ride (one way) from Paris to Auvers.

By Car:  Paris to Auvers-Sur-Oise is a 33 km drive that takes around 28 minutes, depending on traffic.

7. Marly-Le-Roi

Marly-le-Roi is one of the small villages near Paris worth visiting. It is located 20km west of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Marly was the location of Château de Marly , the famous leisure residence of King Louis XIV, which was more intimate than Versailles and far from the court etiquette. Only a few people had the honor to be the King’s guests at Marly, and they were appointed directly by King Louis XIV a few days before the departure.

The Château de Marly was totally destroyed after the French Revolution. However, a few remains are left, and the surrounding park still keeps its original waterways, lawns, and sculptures.

In Marly-le-Roi, you may also want to visit Alexandre Dumas’ home, the Château de Montecristo , and its park. This beautiful and intriguing castle is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the writer’s life and work.

Things to Do in Marly-Le-Roi:

• Stroll around the gardens and the remains of the Royal Palace
• Picnic in the Park
• Visit the Château de Montecristo

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO MARLY-LE-ROI

By Train: There are many direct trains from La Défense to Marly-le-Roi. To reach La Défense train station, take the RER A or the Parisian metro line 1. Then take train L towards St Nom la Bretèche train station (1hr, every 20 min).

By Car:  Paris to Marly-le-Roi is a 25 km drive which takes around 23 min, depending on the traffic.

8. Bougival

Bougival is one of the best towns near Paris with direct train connections to the capital. It is located 17km west of Paris in the Ile-de-France region.

During the 19th century, the Impressionists chose this peaceful place by the Seine River as their favorite open-air workshop. People like Monet , Sisley, or Berthe Morisot spent long periods in this village trying to catch the beauty of the river and its banks, and soon Bougival’s landscapes became the subject of some of their masterworks.

Visit Bougival’s picturesque historic center, with its beautiful Romanesque-style church, before heading to the Seine River’s banks to follow the Impressionist Walk . This walk has real-scale panels showing reproductions of famous Impressionist paintings at the exact point where the painters found inspiration.

In Bougival, you will also find the remains of the Machine of Marly . This intriguing machine, built under the rule of King Louis XIV, transported water from the Seine River up to Versailles to feed the Fountains of Versailles ! At that time, the Machine de Marly was considered the eighth-world wonder.

Things to Do in Bougival:

• Seine River walks
• The remains of the Machine of Marly

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO BOUGIVAL

By Train: There are many direct trains from La Défense to Bougival train station. To reach La Défense train station, take the RER A or the Parisian metro line 1. Then take train L towards St Nom la Bretèche train station (1hr, every 20 min). Bougival is the train station before Marly-le-Roi, so you can visit both places on the same day.

By Car:  Paris to Bougival i is a 15 km drive which takes around 14 min, depending on the traffic.

9. Montfort L’Amaury

Montfort l’Amaury is one of the best villages near Paris to visit. Monfort is located 45km west of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Despite its small size, Montfort has an interesting heritage. The historical center still maintains its medieval layout, and the streets around the church are populated by many beautiful half-timbered houses.

We arrived at Montfort L’Amaury following Victor Hugo’s steps. The famous French writer discovered this place when he was 23, and he wrote a beautiful ode to Monfort’s ruins (Tour d’Anne de Bretagne) ‘Aux Ruines de Montfort l’Amaury:’

• Je vous aime, ô débris ! Et surtout quand l’automne
• Prolonge en vos échos sa plainte monotone. Sous vos abris croulants je voudrais habiter, | Vieilles tours, que le temps l’une vers l’autre incline.
• Et qui semblez de loin sur la haute colline, |Deux noirs géants prêts à lutter.

The list of interesting sites in Monfort l’Amaury includes the 12th-century fortified castle ( Tour Anne de Bretagne ), the impressive Saint Pierre Church (15th-16th centuries), and the old cemetery with a beautiful covered gallery. The French composer Maurice Ravel lived in Montfort for 16 years, and it is possible to visit his house ( Le Belvedère ), where he composed the famous Boléro.

Things to Do in Montfort L’Amaury

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO MONTFORT L’AMAURY

By Train + Bicycle: Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de Montparnasse to Montfort Méré train station. From the train station, there is a 3.6 km walk to Montfort l’Amaury. You can take your bicycle on the train (or rent one in Paris) and explore Monfort by bike starting from the train station.

By Car: The easiest way to visit Montfort l’Amaury is by car. Paris to Montfort l’Amaury is a 50 km drive that takes around 35 minutes, depending on the traffic.

10. Chevreuse

La Haute Vallée de la Chevreuse is a hiking paradise with the perfect mix of nature walks and cultural heritage. If you are looking for day trips in the French countryside near Paris, you are going to love Chevreuse , a small village nestled in the Valley. Chevreuse is located 34km southwest of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Chevreuse is dominated by the Château de la Madelaine, a beautiful fortified castle (11th century) on the top of a hill with panoramic views of the Valley. This village near Paris is also known for its  Chemin des Petits Ponts along one of the legs of the Yvette River . This picturesque pedestrian walk is lined with old laundries, tanneries, and watermills.

Things to do in Chevreuse:

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO CHEVREUSE

By Train: We usually visit Chevreuse on an (18 km) day hike, starting at La Verrière train station and ending at St Rémy La Chevreuse train station. If you want to visit the town of Chevreuse only, take RER B to Saint Rémy La Chevreuse train station (45 min, hourly), and from there, there is a 3 km walk to Chevreuse.

By Car:  Paris to Chevreuse is a 34 km drive which takes around 40 min, depending on the traffic.

11. La Roche-Guyon

If you are looking for unique villages near Paris to visit, consider La Roche-Guyon , on the right bank of the Seine River. La Roche-Guyon is located 72km northwest of Paris, and this is the only village in the region of Ile de France with the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” label.

In the 19th century, La Roche-Guyon was a holiday resort that saw many artists and writers. This picturesque village near Paris is known for its intriguing 12th-century castle. The keep, built on the top of the hill, is connected to the main building through a 100-step underground staircase dug into the side of the plateau, and it offers panoramic views of the village and the Seine Valley.

The Kitchen Garden is another interesting place to visit in La Roche-Guyon . This French-style vegetable garden was created in the 18th century by the La Rochefoucauld family, the castle’s owners. This family shared the ideas of the physiocrats and encyclopaedists, and they wanted for their château a scientific and experimental garden rather than a pleasure garden.

Things to Do in La Roche-Guyon

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO LA ROCHE GUYON

By Train+Bus:  La Roche-Guyon is not easy to reach by public transportation, but nothing is impossible! Take a train from Paris Saint Lazare Train Station to Gare de Bonnières (47 min, every 4 hours). The next step is to take a bus from Gare Routière Bonnières to Petit Pont station (9 min, every 4 hours).

By Car:  Paris to La Roche-Guyon is a 72 km drive which takes around 53 min, depending on the traffic.

Beautiful Villages Near Paris (Hauts-de-France Region)

12. chantilly.

Chantilly is a lovely town in the Hauts-de-France region famous for its Grand Stables and beautiful château. Chantilly is an easy day trip from Paris by train, but if you are wondering where to stay outside of Paris to take the train in, Chantilly is a good option too.

The Château de Chantilly was built in the 16th century for the House of Montomercy. Later, it was owned by the princes of Condé, cousins of the King of France. The surrounding gardens are spectacular, and you can visit them with or without the Château.

In the 17th century, Les Grandes Ecuries (the Grand Stables) was built for the Prince of Condé, and they could host 240 horses and 500 hounds. Today Les Grandes Écuries hosts the Horse Museum, and it is a very reputed center of dressage for the most expensive horses in the world.  The ticket to the Horse Museum includes a very entertaining dressage show.

Since the construction of Les Grandes Écuries, the world of this small town near Paris has turned around horses. Today, Chantilly and the surrounding villages are home to the largest racehorse-training community in France. The Chantilly Racecourse (Hippodrome de Chantilly) hosts one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.

Things to Do in Chantilly:

• Racecourse in the Hippodrome de Chantilly

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO CHANTILLY

By Train:  There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux train station (30 min, hourly). From there, it’s a pleasant walk to the Château and the Grand Stables.

By Car:  Paris to Chantilly is a 42 km drive which takes around 40 min, depending on the traffic.

Because of its direct train connection with Paris, Chantilly is one of the best places to stay outside Paris to enjoy the French countryside, with easy access to Paris.

>> Click here for the best hotels in Chantilly

Senlis is one of the cute towns near Paris that you cannot miss, with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Senlis is located 42km north of Paris, in the region of Hauts-de-France.

Senlis is a royal town, the cradle of the Capet dynasty . Indeed, Hugh Capet was lord of Senlis before becoming the first French king of the House of Capet in 987. Since then and until King Henry IV, all his successors lived or spent some periods in the Royal Palace of Senlis.

Today the historical center of Senlis still keeps its medieval layout, with picturesque cobbled streets and beautiful architecture dating from the 10th-18th century. Senlis Cathedral may not be one of our favorite cathedrals in France, but no one can deny that it is imposing and probably the best remaining witness of Senlis’ power.

Senlis is also well known for its Roman heritage, and you can still see some remains of the Roman fortress and towers (3rd century) and a Gallo-Roman arena (1st century).

Things to Do in Senlis

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO SENLIS

By Train + Bus: If you want to go from Paris to Senlis by public transportation, take the train from Paris Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux train station (30 min, hourly) and then take bus #645 to Senlis (20 min ride every 30 min). The bus schedule changes often, so we recommend checking the tourism website here .

By Car:  Paris to Senlis is a 51 km drive which takes around 35 min, depending on the traffic.

You can visit Senlis on a day trip from Paris, but the town is so charming that it is worth spending one night on-site. Book one night in Senlis and use the day after to visit Chantilly, located only 10 minutes by bus from Senlis.

>> Click here for the best hotels in Senlis

14. Gerberoy

Gerberoy is one of the cutest small villages near Paris. It is located 105km northwest of Paris, and it is a dream destination for flower passionates, especially rose lovers.

Walking around this picturesque village and its gardens is an absolute delight, with its narrow cobbled streets, 17th-18th-century houses, climbing roses, wisterias, and other flowers and plants.

Gerberoy is one of the villages in Hauts-de-France with the ‘Most beautiful villages of France’ label. It is the perfect place to wander aimlessly, looking at the flowers and the small details.

Gerberoy is best known for its Rose Festival (the third weekend of June), when roses and hortensias are in full bloom.

Things to Do in Gerberoy:

• The Rose Festival in June

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO GERBEROY

By Car:  Paris to Gerberoy is a 105 km drive which takes around 1 hour 15 min, depending on the traffic.

Beautiful Towns Near Paris (Normandy Region)

15. giverny.

Giverny is one of the most famous villages near Paris, where the Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked from 1883 until he died in 1926. Giverny is located 74km northwest of Paris, in the Normandy region.

Every year thousands of visitors travel from Paris to Giverny to visit Monet’s House and Garden to admire the water lily pond that inspired Monet for many of his paintings ( click here for a quick guide ). However, Monet’s house and studio are as attractive as the gardens; they are a visual experience of different spaces, colors, and materials where the painter left nothing to chance.

Apart from Monet’s house, Giverny has a main street with cute shops, cafes, and an Impressionist Museum .

Things to Do in Giverny

• Monet’s House and Garden

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO GIVERNY

By Train + Shuttle: There is no direct train connection from Paris to Giverny. First, you need to take a train from Gare Saint Lazare to Vernon train station (1 hr, hourly), where you can take a shuttle that drops you in front of Monet’s house.

>> Click here to book your train tickets to Vernon

By Car:  Paris to Giverny is a 74 km drive which takes around 54 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO GIVERNY

If you’d rather not drive to Giverny yourself, you can take this half-day guided tour to Giverny with an expert guide that will drive you there and back in comfort.

16. Les Andelys

Les Andelys are two beautiful towns near Paris located in one of the meanders of the Seine River 90km northwest of Paris. A pleasant walk along the canal connects the two towns in the Normandy region.

Les Andelys are overlooked by the splendid ruins of Château-Gaillard . This medieval fortress was built in the 12th century under the orders of King Richard Lionheart – who was also Duke of Normandy – to protect his lands against the French King Philippe Auguste. The view from the castle (see picture above) over Les Andelys and the Seine River is terrific.

Les Andelys (and the Château Gaillard) make a nice stop, perhaps on your way to Giverny or Rouen by car. Apart from the ruins of the Château, the towns have different religious buildings from the 13th century and beautiful family houses from the 16th-19th centuries.

Things to Do in Les Andelys

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO LES ANDELYS

By Car: This is the best option to visit Les Andelys because train connections are not good. Les Andelys is a 90km drive which takes around 1 hour, depending on the traffic.

Gisors is one of the best small towns near Paris to visit for history lovers. It is located only 70 km north of the French capital, on the banks of the River Epte, in the Normandy region. 

Gisors is the historical capital of the Norman Vexin (Eure) and is well worth a visit for its picturesque architecture of old half-timbered houses and listed heritage. The town is best known for its medieval château , which is one of the best castles in Normandy . The castle was an important fortress for the English Kings – who were also Dukes of Normandy – and was built in the 11th century to help protect the region from the King of France. From the top of its keep, visitors can enjoy a superb view of the town and Epte Valley.

Other interesting things to see in Gisors are the Church of St. Gervais and St. Protais from the 12th-16th centuries, which has a remarkable Renaissance façade, a Flamboyant Gothic nave, and a radiant Gothic chancel.

What to Do in Gisors:

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO GISORS

By Train: there’s no direct train to Gisors, but nothing is lost! From Paris Gare du Nord, take the Translien train line H to Pontoise, then line J to Gisors. The total journey usually takes less than 2 hours (one way, waiting time in Pontoise included).  There’s no need to book train tickets in advance.

By Car:  Paris to Gisors by car is a 70 km drive which lasts less than 1 hour. Try to leave the French capital early in the morning to avoid the rush hours.

Cute Towns Near Paris (Centre-Val de Loire Region)

18. chartres.

Chartres is one of the most attractive big towns /small cities near Paris to visit. It is located 96 km south of Paris, in the region of Centre-Val-de-Loire.

Chartres is best known for its impressive Gothic Cathedral , one of the Grandes Cathédrales de France , and (like Amiens Cathedral or Saint-Denis Basilica-Cathedral ) an essential milestone in the evolution of Gothic Cathedrals in Europe. The Chartres Cathedral is famous for its 13th-century labyrinth designed on the pavement, the largest one built in France! Pilgrims used to walk this labyrinth seeking healing or meditation.

Apart from the magnificent Cathedral, Chartres has a cute historical center with some half-timbered houses. We suggest walking down to the River Eure where you can see pretty small houses, some of them with their private boats.

Things to Do in Chartres

• Chartres en Lumières (sound and light show)

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO CHARTRES

Chartres is one of the easiest short-day trips from Paris by train. Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de Montparnasse to Chartres Train Station every 30 minutes (1h 10min ride).

>> Click here to book your train tickets to Chartres

By Car:  Paris to Chartres is an 88.5 km drive which takes around 53 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO CHARTRES

Spend a relaxing day exploring the Chartres Cathedral and the medieval houses along the Eure River with this 5-hour guided tour . The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation on a private vehicle, and a knowledgeable English guide.

If you are wondering where to stay outside Paris, Chartres can be a good choice. The Chartres en Lumières Show (light show from dusk to 1 am in the summer) is a great excuse to extend your trip and spend one night in Chartres.

>> Click here for the best hotels in Chartres

Beautiful Villages Near Paris (Grand Est Region)

19. éperney & hautvillers.

If you are willing to explore the French countryside near Paris, Epernay and Hautvillers are the best towns near Paris to visit. Epernay is located 140 km southwest of Paris, in the region of Grand Est .

In the heart of the Champagne vineyards, Epernay is the capital of champagne wine. In this small town near Paris, the most luxury champagne brands, like Moët-Chandon, Vranken, Mercier, Pol Roger, or Perrier-Jouët, have their headquarters and champagne cellars.

Epernay’s main avenue, Avenue de Champagne , is considered the most expensive avenue in the world! Beautiful private mansions line up on the surface. Below the ground, kilometers of galleries house millions of bottles of the best champagne wine.

The village of Hautvilliers , north of Epernay, is also worth visiting. Here, the monk Dom Perignon developed the method of champagnisation of wine. Dom Perignon is buried inside this abbey, just in front of the main altar.

Things to Do in Epernay & Hautvillers

• Champagne tasting and shopping from small producers
• Champagne tours

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO EPERNAY

By Train: trains to Epernay leave Paris from Paris Gare de l’Est to Epernay train station every 2 hours (1h 15 min). If you want to add Hautvillers to your Epernay trip, we recommend taking a taxi (5km, 10 minutes drive).

>> Click here to book your train tickets to Epernay

By Car: Paris to Epernay by car is a 140 km drive which lasts about 1 hour 15 min.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO EPERNAY

Explore the Champagne wine-producing region with this small-group guided tour with private transportation and some tastings included. Learn the basics of champagne wine, from the growing to the tasting, and tour the House of Moët & Chandon, the world’s largest producer of champagne.

The tour also includes a visit to Reims Cathedral, where the Kings of France were crowned.

And there you have it, the list of the best small towns and other beautiful places near Paris to visit on a day trip. If you can travel further, check out this France Travel Guide

Click here for more Side Trips from Paris

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Some interesting articles in the blog

• Read our Paris for the First Time Quick Guide  here
• Find things to eat in Paris  here
• Explore the Paris Districts here

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

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Best places to visit in france.

France is home to some of the most lively cities, bucolic villages and renowned wine regions on the globe. U.S. News considered factors like variety of attractions, lodging, weather and culinary scenes to create this ranking of the best places to visit in France. Whether you're seeking an action-packed sightseeing adventure or a relaxing wine retreat, you'll find a fun French vacation here. To influence next year's ranking, vote below for your favorite destinations in France.

Mont Saint-Michel

Montpellier, french alps, chamonix-mont-blanc, aix-en-provence, loire valley.

As the world's best place to visit , it's no surprise that the electrifying City of Light tops this list. France's capital city is a year-round tourist destination with iconic attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower and incredible architecture (think: the dazzling Basilique du Sacré-Coeur). Not to mention, Paris offers unparalleled dining and shopping scenes and more museums than you could hope to visit in one trip. Keep in mind, Paris is often flooded with tourists and room rates can be pricey. If you're looking for a deal, travel in winter or early spring.

The capital of the Alsace region offers the perfect mix of French and German culture thanks to its location on the France-Germany border. While here, travelers should see Strasbourg's Gothic-style cathedral and stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Petite France quarter with its half-timbered houses and postcard-worthy waterways. Plus, those with an interest in politics can tour several important European institutions during their visit, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. For an extra dose of charm, arrive in December to see one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets.

Rising above the sea like a castle in a fairy tale, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is one of France's most-visited sights. Legend says the archangel Michael, the island's namesake, repeatedly appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches in dreams, telling him to build a church on top of the island in A.D. 708. Since its completion, it has become an important pilgrimage site for Christians and European intellectuals. Visitors can tour the picturesque abbey and admire its incredible medieval architecture or wander its surrounding streets, which are lined with tiny shops and quaint cafes.

Dubbed La Ville Rose due to the prominence of distinctive clay bricks in its architecture, Toulouse is a feast for the eyes. Throughout this city, which is located in the South of France, you'll find marvels like the neoclassical Le Capitole on the main square, the stately Basilica of Saint-Sernin (an 11th-century UNESCO site) and the Hôtel d’Assézat, which houses a noteworthy art gallery. What's more, several canals with shady footpaths pass through the city, including the idyllic Canal du Midi. For some of the best views of Toulouse, take a cruise on the River Garonne, or just sunbathe on its banks.

Sunny Montpellier glows with a combination of old world charm and a trendy university lifestyle. This city in the south of France evokes Parisian appeal with Haussmann architecture and stylish promenades. And like Paris, adornment is everywhere in Montpellier, from fashionable boutiques to street art to France's oldest botanical garden. Plus, since Montpellier is located 7 miles from the coast of the Mediterranean, a beach break is close at hand. Once the sun sets, take part in the city's youthful nightlife scene, which includes everything from music halls to dance clubs.

It's easy to see why Colmar, located in the heart of Alsace's wine region, is considered one of France's most beautiful cities. Colorful houses that look as if they belong in a fairy tale line the Little Venice district, where you can take a boat tour through Colmar's canals or reach boutiques and eateries on foot. The setting is picturesque regardless of when you vacation here, but for even more charm, visit Colmar at night when lights illuminate the city during annual events like the Colmar International Festival, Alsace's wine fair and Colmar's Christmas market.

To see some of France's most spectacular art and architecture, head to Avignon. This city in southeastern France is full of stunning structures, including the 14th-century Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, and the arched bridge, Pont d'Avignon. A number of can't-miss museums are spread throughout Avignon as well, such as the Musée Angladon, which houses works by highly regarded artists like Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh. Visit in July to attend the Festival d'Avignon, one of the world's largest performing arts festivals.

If your ideal French vacation involves a little more nature and a little less city, head to the French Alps . Here, you'll find some of the best ski slopes in Europe, as well as beautiful scenery that rivals any work of art or architecture. In summer, the typically snow-covered mountains thaw just enough to create perfect conditions for hiking and biking. Enchanting villages sit at the base of the range, offering several places to unwind when you've had enough fun on the slopes or trails.

Despite its war-filled past, this region in northern France is also a place of great beauty and culture. Étretat's white cliffs are a great place to take in the area's natural scenery. Then, visit the region's capital city, Rouen, to admire works of art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts and stroll past the quaint half-timbered houses. Be sure to sample some of the city's culinary specialties to see why it is now a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Or, see some of the remnants of Normandy's heavy history at the D-Day Landing Beaches and The Bayeux Tapestry.

Glamorous Nice occupies a picturesque spot along the French Riviera. Beach bums and culture hounds alike will enjoy the city's pebbly shores, engaging museums, boutique shops and Baroque-style palaces. Be sure to stroll along the coastline's Promenade des Anglais and pick up some fresh flowers and produce at the vibrant Cours Saleya market, located in old town. You'll likely spend a pretty penny on lodging and beach access, but experiencing Nice is worth it. To save some coin, travel between mid-March and April or from September to October, the area's shoulder seasons.

Often called "France's Isle of Beauty," Corsica features diverse landscapes and a unique culture that make it seem like a miniature continent. The Mediterranean island's clear blue water and white sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling and kayaking, while its mountainous terrain and dense forests provide ample opportunities to hike trails like the highly regarded (albeit challenging) GR20. Those looking to take in some history can visit the Maison Bonaparte museum to see Napoleon's birthplace. What's more, Corsica offers a one-of-a-kind food scene that showcases various local delicacies, such as lonzu (dry-cured ham) and brocciu (cheese).

While it may not be as well known as big-name cities like Paris, Lyon competes with the best of them. Despite being the third-largest city in France, Lyon is much calmer and less touristy than other similarly sized destinations. The streets are filled with public art, including the city's famous trompe l'oeil murals, and there are museums that focus on everything from movies to history. Plus, it's surrounded by hundreds of wineries and home to 4,000-plus restaurants, several of which boast Michelin stars, making it especially appealing to oenophiles and foodies.

If you love to ski, chances are you'll enjoy shredding powder at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. In the bustling Chamonix (the main place to stay if you want to ski at Mont Blanc), you'll have easy access to the longest off-piste run in the world (Vallée Blanche) and rugged, challenging slopes. But this destination, which hosted the 1924 Winter Olympics, offers more than just top-notch skiing. Chamonix is also a great place to go hiking, mountain biking and whitewater rafting. For some family-friendly fun, visit the town's adventure park to zip down its Alpine coaster and various slides.

Quaint, charming Aix-en-Provence is a university city known for its tree-lined boulevards, cute cafes and lively markets. Life moves at a more leisurely pace here than in other French cities, meaning it's the perfect place for travelers to get lost in the scenic streets. Make sure to add Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and Le Grand Marché – two of the city's top attractions – to your itinerary. You can also see where artist Paul Cézanne (an Aix-en-Provence native) painted some of his masterpieces at Atelier de Cezanne, or venture outside of the city to see the Provencal scenes that inspired him.

Vincent Van Gogh fans may recognize the streetscapes of Arles: This small city in Provence inspired some of the artist's best-known works with its bright colors and rustic feel. Art aficionados can walk in Van Gogh's footsteps and explore his favorite haunts on a walking tour through this romantic city or visit the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles. Beyond this noteworthy connection, Arles is renowned for its Roman ruins, including a two-tiered amphitheater, the Alyscamps necropolis and the Constantine Baths. And as the gateway to the Camargue region, Arles is a great base for visitors looking to explore this marshy, flamingo-filled area.

Another popular wine region, Burgundy is home to rolling hills, superior cuisine and an array of vineyards. Those visiting Burgundy must spend time exploring the medieval villages, historical abbeys and museums that call this area home. Dijon, the region's history-rich capital, makes a great home base for touring the area. And, of course, you can't leave without trying the region's wine, which mainly uses the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, and dining on some of its rich cuisine.

Northwestern France's Brittany region stands out from the rest of the country in more ways than one. Locals are proud and protective of their Celtic heritage, including their unique language, traditions and festivals. As a result, visitors will find many well-preserved historical sites throughout the area, including prehistoric megaliths and medieval towns like Saint-Malo, a popular port town with a 12th-century citadel. Brittany also features breathtaking coastlines with fantastic beaches that are known for their phenomenal waves for surfing, dive spots and dolphin-spotting opportunities. 

As the capital of France's Champagne region, Reims is a must-visit destination for both history buffs and those who love bubbly. The city offers many Champagne cellars where visitors can learn about how the popular wine is produced before tasting it. Additionally, Reims features breathtaking Gothic architecture at attractions like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame at Reims, where 25 French monarchs were crowned between 1223 and 1825, and the adjacent Palace of Tau, the former residence of France's archbishops. No visit would be complete without perusing the exhibits in one of Reims' museums, which cover a range of topics from war history to art and automobiles.

The gateway to the Loire Valley, Tours is perfectly situated for touring the region's wineries. But with Tours' historical elements and prime location along the Loire River, you may just want to stay in town. Place Plumereau, a medieval marketplace that remains one of the city's oldest squares, exudes irresistible charm with half-timbered houses, while churches like the Saint-Gatien Cathedral stun with their stately façades. Visitors will also have their pick of green spaces, from parks like Prébendes d’Oé Garden to riverside guinguettes (open-air cafes) at Tours sur Loire. What's more, several of the region's famed châteaux (including the Château de Villandry) sit just outside the city.

For a romantic escape, visit the Loire Valley in central France. Situated along the Loire River, the area is peppered with châteaux, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, farms and wineries renowned for their sauvignon blanc. The region itself is even a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and historical villages. Plan to spend some time in a few of the valley's laid-back cities and towns, such as Orléans and Saumur, and you can't miss the emblematic Château de Chambord.

This wine-producing hub woos travelers with its riverbank location and surrounding countryside. With nearly 300,000 acres of vineyards, Bordeaux offers ample choices for those looking to sip some of the best (typically bold red) wines in the world. In the city center, marvel at the Gothic-style Basilique Saint Michel, walk across the Pont de Pierre (a beautiful stone bridge), snap a photo of the iconic Place de la Bourse and enjoy the Jardin Public's pathways and flora.

Located on the French Riviera just 8 miles from Nice, the tiny hilltop village of Èze makes for an excellent daytrip. The best way to spend your time in this medieval town is meandering through its cobbled streets that look as though they've been pulled from a postcard. In doing so, you'll find picturesque views of the coast, as well as luxury hotels and shops from another era. Top sights include the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption and Jardin Exotique d'Èze, as well as the walking path of Nietzsche, who was inspired to write here. Before leaving town, stop by the Fragonard Parfumeur factory for a fragrant tour.

Located 35 miles northeast of Montpellier, Nîmes delights history buffs with some of the world's best-preserved Roman treasures like its emblematic arena and La Maison Carrée, a temple dating back to 10 B.C. Museums throughout Nîmes also cover its past. But lest you get the wrong impression, Nîmes is anything but stuffy. The city embraces the joie de vivre of the South of France with countless festivals, from structured events like the concert lineups of the Festival de Nîmes to lively Ferias de Nîmes – multi-day celebrations that occur twice a year at Pentecost and in September, and center around bullfighting, dancing and music.

France's oldest and second-largest city has become an exciting, up-and-coming tourist destination. Marseille has a number of sights to see, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and Château d'If, the ominous prison made famous by Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo." When the weather is nice, the rocky cliffs and secluded beaches of the Calanques are excellent for swimming, boating and hiking. No trip to Marseille would be complete without a stop by the Mucem, a museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization. Plus, its rooftop terrace makes the perfect vantage point to admire the city.

Famous for its annual film festival in May, Cannes is just as impressive (and much less congested) other times of the year. Cannes is another French Riviera hot spot that welcomes travelers looking for a little relaxation (think: sun-soaked beaches and meandering walks through the steep streets of Le Suquet, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods). Visitors can sightsee as they stroll along La Croisette, a 2-mile-long promenade, or sit down for an exquisite meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Feeling lucky? Stop by one of Cannes' casinos.

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These 10 Landmarks In France Are Worth Skipping Paris To See

France has more to offer than just Paris; these landmarks are worth a detour from the most popular French city.

• France is more than just Paris. There are countless places outside of the city to explore, from ancient ruins and art museums to stunning gardens and natural wonders.
• Arles offers a glimpse into French history with its ancient Roman Amphitheater and ties to Vincent van Gogh. Visitors can learn about both at the Foundation Vincent Van Gogh Arles.
• The Loire Valley is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and biking enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy beautiful countryside, explore châteaux, and indulge in delicious French cuisine and wines.

Paris is universally heralded as the city of love . Visitors from all over the world flock to this destination for a selfie with famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or with the hope of meeting that special someone. But what about the rest of France? Have the wonders of the Camargue, the Riviera, and the Loire Valley been overlooked in favor of the city of lights?

Well-versed travelers will know that France is more than just Paris. There are hundreds of different places to see and explore, with some of the world's top landmarks worth visiting located there. France is a romantic country filled with unique nooks for travelers to fall in love with. Nearly every city has its own charm, its own delicious local wines, and artistic wonders to see—not to mention the stunning European architecture. In a country with a history that stretches back to the Paleolithic era, visitors have thousands of years of human culture to explore.

Find out the best locations in France (outside of Paris) to learn about hidden French gems, the best places for wine, spectacular gardens, and ancient ruins!

10 Visit Arles: The Roman Amphitheater And The Once-Home Of Vincent van Gogh

France is a country with a long and rich history. One of the best places outside of Paris to experience that is at Arles. This Camargue city has been inhabited for millennia but truly came into its own during the Roman period when the city's famous Amphitheater was built.

With a capacity to hold 20,000 people, visitors today can still hear echoes of the roaring crowds that once came here to watch gladiator fights and chariot races. Arles' history, however, didn't end when Rome fell; later on, in the 19th century, Arles was home to world-famous artist, Vincent van Gogh for a year, and is the subject of many of his paintings.

Visitors can learn about him at the Foundation Vincent Van Gogh Arles , a local museum that hosts Van Gogh-themed events.

• What to do here: Learn about French history from Rome to the modern era, visit the spectacular Roman amphitheater, visit the Foundation Vincent van Gogh Arles

Related: 10 Most Historic Attractions In France And The Amazing Stories Associated With Them

9 Bike The Loire Valley

Known as the Garden of France, the stunning Loire Valley is famous for its lush agricultural land . Tourists here will find beautiful countryside rich with asparagus, artichokes, cherries, and grapes. This area is also famous for its architecture, gastronomy, its many châteaux, its delicious wines, and its long-standing role in history; inhabitation in this area goes back at least 57,000 years!

The top thing to do in this area, however, has to be to travel the Loire by bicycle. With dozens of cycling tours for travelers to enjoy, visitors can either take a relaxed approach or a more rigorous one. The possibilities are endless!

• What to do here : experience some of the best French wines and foods, visit many different châteaux, go on a biking tour

8 Dune du Pilat: France's Surprising Natural Wonder

Who would've thought that the tallest sand dune in Europe is located in France? Dune du Pilat, a 2.7 km long sand dune located on France's Atlantic coast, draws millions of tourists every year.

Visitors here can not only see this marvel of nature but can enjoy the many sports and recreational activities that make this area famous, like paragliding.

• What to do here: visit a 2.7 km long sand dune (the tallest in Europe), engage in sports and recreational activities like paragliding

7 Step Back In Time At Lascaux

One of the most important educational experiences in the world is visiting the Lascaux IV Museum . The original Lascaux Cave, located near the village of Montignac, was first discovered by local teenagers in 1940. The beautiful artwork depicting bulls, horses, giant elk, and bison was determined to date back to at least 15,000 BCE.

Although the actual cave is currently closed for preservation reasons, the Museum of Lascaux IV seeks to give visitors a similar experience by utilizing replica artwork created by a team of 50 artists.

Visitors will be able to find a newfound connection with Paleolithic hunter-gatherers when walking through the reconstructed tunnel lined with replica artwork.

• What to do here: learn about Paleolithic history, find a greater understanding of the human experience, see stunning replica artwork at Lascaux IV

Related: The Submerged Cosquer Cave In France Holds Some Of The Most Well-Preserved Paintings From The Stone Age

6 Fall In Love With Beautiful French Architecture At The Pearl Of France, Menton

When traveling to Menton, tourists will quickly learn why this city has been nicknamed "The Pearl of France." The sight of pink, yellow, and orange buildings rising up along the hillside, with their brilliant colors reflected in green water is enough to take even the hardest of hearts' breath away.

This spectacular city is filled with adorable cafés, exquisite gardens, informative museums, and stunning beaches. The many palm trees and bright colors found here make this a perfect winter destination for those who need an escape from the snow or rain!

• What to do here: see some of France's most beautiful urban architecture, sit at a café, enjoy the city's museums

5 See The Spectacular Gardens At Pont du Gard

Located just near the historic city of Nîmes towers one of the Mediterranean's premier Ancient Roman sites: the aqueduct-bridge of Pont du Gard. This aqueduct is the perfect showcase of Ancient Roman engineering; this aqueduct would have provided a life-giving source of water for thousands of people in the region.

For tourists today, this site is a reminder of the labor and hard work that humans historically have had to do to stay alive and meet basic needs. However, this site is not just a utilitarian one. Pont du Gard is now a popular hiking spot, where tourists can walk through some of the most peaceful gardens in southern France.

Here, tourists will see a vast array of wildflowers and can rest under the shade of ancient olive trees.

• What to do here: see one of Europe's most important Ancient Roman sites, learn about the human experience, hike, see wildflowers, sit under an olive tree, visit nearby Nîmes

Related: Discover This Underrated, But Well-Preserved Roman City In Southern France

4 Marvel At The Orchards, Hills, And Ochre-Rich Gorges Of Roussillon

A unique, mountainous landscape with fertile orchards defines the small village of Roussillon. This area is known for its delicious fruit, like cherries and peaches, and for its rosé wines. What makes this village special, however, and ranks it as one of the best non-Paris places to visit in France are its stunningly beautiful clay deposits that historically were used to make paint pigments from the 18th-20th centuries.

Today, visitors can hike along the brilliant orange and golden cliff sides. The natural ecology is actually reflected in the local architecture of the town; many of the historic buildings here are bright orange, like the clay deposits. It is truly a sight that has to be seen to be believed!

• What to do here: hike along historic ochre mining sites, see brilliant orange and yellow cliff sides rich with clay, marvel at local architecture, taste delicious cherries and peaches from local orchards

3 Visit The Purple Lavender Fields Near Aix-en-Provence

Visiting France in the summer is popular for a reason. One of those reasons is to see the summer-blooming lavender fields of Provence. Tourists come from far and wide to see the purple and blue fields surrounded by dense green forests and rough-stone country buildings.

The perfect place to stay to see this iconic French agricultural wonder is Aix-en-Provence, a Roman-era town known for the victory site of the infamous general Gaius Marius in his Cimbrian War. This city is famous for its medieval cloisters, tranquil cafés, towering cathedrals, and picturesque views.

• What to do here: Visit the summertime purple lavender fields, visit Aix-en-Provence to view medieval cloisters, sit in a café, visit local cathedrals

Related: Road Trip France: Explore 10 Beautiful Towns On The French Riviera

2 Drink In The World's Wine Capital At Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a wine lover's paradise! This metropolitan area, which is the fifth largest in France, is internationally heralded as the best place for wine in the entire world. With over 10,000 châteaux in this area and 285,000 acres of vineyards, it is no surprise that this area has become famous for its red and white wines.

Tourists can enjoy a professional wine-tasting tour or can set off on their own. Some of this area's other main attractions include the Place de la Bourse, the Bordeaux Cathedral, the Grande Synagogue, and the Rue Sainte-Catherine.

• What to do here: try some of the world's best red and white wines, go on a wine-tasting tour, visit many different picturesque châteaux, visit the Place de la Bourse, the Bordeaux Cathedral, the Grande Synagogue, and the Rue Sainte-Catherine

1 Stroll Through Monet's Gardens At Giverny

For some of the best gardens in France, a great place to visit is Giverny, the historic home of Claude Monet. Visiting here, tourists will realize that even the incredible artistry of Monet's Water Lilies series could not truly capture the splendor of these gardens. This area is at its most gorgeous in late spring and early summer when the majority of the flowers are in bloom.

The green water of the area's ponds surrounded by lush trees and water flora will give visitors a sense of lasting peace that will follow them even to their next adventure.

Visitors here should stop by the two major museums in this area, the Museum of Impressionism Giverny and the Foundation Claude Monet. The Foundation Claude Monet is especially enthralling, as it is the actual home where Monet lived, and includes the expansive gardens where he painted many of his significant works.

• What to do here: see the beautiful gardens of Claude Monet at the Foundation Claude Monet, visit the Museum of Impressionism Giverny, see local and exotic plants, learn about Claude Monet

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Bring Culture Into Your Life

Top Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris

Expedia Canada contacted me to ask what made me fall in love with France. While Paris is a city of stunning architecture, hidden streets, romantic energy, delicious street food and fascinating history, what truly made me fall in love with France are the cities outside of Paris. Why? I’m sure the following photos will be enough to convince you…

Marseille is a lively port city made up of both historical architecture and hip modern multicultural urbanites. The streets of Marseille are so picturesque that it makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a movie set. As soon as you step foot in France’s second largest city, you will quickly notice how multicultural it is. This is because since Greek settlers came ashore around 600 BC, many immigrants have made Marseille their home. I’ve heard mixed reviews about Marseille, but I personally think this is one of the most exciting cities in France.

Dijon is the capital of the Burgundy region in the eastern part of France. If you love wine, elegant medieval and Renaissance buildings, mustard and gingerbread, then this is probably the best place for you in the world to visit.

One of my favourite ways to spend a day in Dijon is by purchasing one of the Dijon City Cards . With the Dijon City Card, you can enjoy special privileges to access the main monuments and attractions of the beautiful city along with 2 guided tours of your choice for an grand total of… 12 €! Of course, I had to choose the lake view Segway tour.

Smaller Villages Surrounding Macon

While the city of Macon didn’t really impress me, the villages surrounding it in the region of Burgundy definitely did. Although Paris is known for being romantic, I felt that these villages were the true representation of romantic France. It’s an area in France where you hope to get lost because when you do, you stumble upon something unexpected and magical.

Whether that is exploring the ground of one of the many ancient castles or finding your way onto a cheese farm. Perhaps it’s turning a corner to find a traditional windmill or making friends with a friendly French donkey. Wherever you end up, you are guaranteed to be greeted by friendly locals and nearby delicious wine and unforgettable French cuisine.

Aix en Provence  

Aix-en-Provence is a university city in the visually stunning Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southern France. If you love markets, moss covered mountains and sunshine there is plenty of all of that in this city. Aix is lush with golden sunflower beds, aromatic lavender fields, ancient olive trees, legendary grape vines and rolling mountains. It’s a great place to truly sit back, take a deep breath and relax.

Whether you are a backpacker, romantic seeking couple or family, Nice has a little something for everyone. There really is a lot to see and do in this city. This city is a mix of old and new with a buzzing nightlife, endless dining options and thriving art scene. It also doesn’t hurt that Nice is also located on the Mediterranean Sea with beautiful beaches where you can get your tan on.

What part of France do you love the most?

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12 Comments

France is such I nice place. Il lived in Paris for 15 years. Loved it. I am now living in Tours, in the Loire Valley, a great wine region, only 150 miles south of Paris. Definitely worth the visit also : great castles of course (e.g. Chambord, Chenonceaux) and many great vineyards for a wine tasting tour. The region can also be discovered by bike : the local tourism councils have worked a lot on making it easy to cycle down the Loire Valley. They have even set up a dedicated website : https://www.loireavelo.fr . A bientôt 🙂

Bordeaux It is one of the best tourist attractions of France which is also recognized as a wine capital. If you are a food lover and wine connoisseur then you will definitely have a lot to discover here. The city also features several historical landmarks and monuments which are worth adding in your list of best places to visit in France. Bordeaux also boasts several shopping markets where you can enjoy the ultimate shopping experience. Some of the key highlights worth visiting in the city include Pey-Berland Tower and Baillardran.

If money were no object I’d basically spend my entire life travelling through France and eating up all the pastries. So buttery. So good. Did you go to Rousillon while you were in the south? It’s awesome and it has a hiking trail through the ochre quarries. It’s like Australia or Arizona but in France.

I am so on the same page as you with the eating and the pastries hahaha. I am obsessed with the food in France! It’s definitely some of the best. I haven’t hit up Roussillon yet, but I’ll be back to France and check that out. Sounds amazing!

Mont St Michel is a must see http://sandrineboutry.com/visiting-mont-st-michel-in-july/ The Loire Valley for its castle too Also, I would recommend the Cantal area (check Salers, it's really pretty) http://sandrineboutry.com/a-roadtrip-to-salers-in-the-cantal-area/ and the area souther (Lozere, Lot and Aveyron are gorgeous and full of pretty lovely village

and if you havn't checked Strasbourg (North East), you should, it is quite a lovely city:)

Looks like I’m going back to France haha. These are awesome suggestions! Where is your absolute favourite?!

Love this list! I’m heading back to France next year, so I’m trying to narrow down my list of places there to visit. There are so many beautiful towns, cities and regions outside of Paris and they all have their own unique character and identity (and food specialty!). Two of my favourite places in France are Carcassonne and Saint-Malo.

Awesome! Happy travels 🙂 I would highly recommend heading to the villages outside of Macon. Dijon is also awesome and you can go on a wine tour that will bring you to a lot of the smaller villages. If you love wine then you will love Dijon and Burgundy in general. I drank some of the best wine I’ve ever had there.

I miss France and I'm looking forward to returning

Me too! What’s your favourite part about the country?

My favorite part of France is the markets. Just about every town has a market and I loved getting cheese there.

Omg me too! There’s nothing quite like eating fresh anything from a market. It’s one of my favourite things to do in any country I visit.

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Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris | Guide

France, a land of romance, culture, and exquisite cuisine, offers much more than the charms of its capital, Paris. While the City of Lights is undeniably captivating, venturing beyond its borders reveals a treasure trove of enchanting destinations waiting to be explored.Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, So join us as we embark on a journey to discover the best places to visit in France outside of Paris, from charming villages to picturesque coastal towns.

Tips to Survive Driving in France as a Foreigner

For the BEST PLACE TO VISIT IN EUROPE IN FEBRUARY, Driving through the scenic landscapes of France can be an exhilarating experience. However, it’s essential to be well-prepared, especially if you’re a foreigner. Here are some valuable tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey on the French roads:

International Driving Permit:

Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip. Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, While it may not always be required, having one is a valuable backup in case you need to present it to authorities.

 Familiarize Yourself with Road Signs:

French road signs may differ from those in your home country. Take the time to learn common signs and their meanings to avoid confusion.

Prioritize Safety:

Always wear your seatbelt, and ensure that all passengers do the same. Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, Adhere to speed limits, and never use your phone while driving unless you have a hands-free device.

Roundabouts:

France has many roundabouts, and knowing how to navigate them correctly is crucial. Traffic within the roundabout has the right of way.

Plan your fuel stops, especially if you’re traveling in rural areas where gas stations may be less frequent.

Toll Roads:

Be prepared for toll roads, which are common in France. Keep some cash and a credit card handy to pay tolls.

Pay attention to parking regulations in cities and towns. Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, Parking fines can be steep.

GPS or Maps:

Use a GPS device or smartphone app for navigation. Ensure that it’s set to your preferred language.

Learn Basic French Phrases:

While many French people speak English, knowing a few basic French phrases can be helpful, especially in more remote areas.

Roadside Assistance:

Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and have access to roadside assistance services.

By following these tips, you can confidently navigate the French roads and fully enjoy the diverse beauty that lies beyond Paris.

Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris

For the BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN DECEMBER EUROPE, France boasts an array of stunning destinations outside of Paris, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, Here are some of the best places to visit:

1. Provence: Known for its lavender fields, charming villages, and Mediterranean coastline, Provence is a picturesque region that invites you to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.

2. Loire Valley: Discover the enchanting châteaux of the Loire Valley, where fairy-tale castles are surrounded by lush gardens and rolling vineyards.

3. Normandy: Visit Normandy’s historic D-Day landing beaches, picturesque towns like Honfleur, and the stunning Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Normandy: Where History Meets Scenic Beauty

4. Bordeaux: Sip on world-class wines in Bordeaux, known for its vineyards and wine estates. Explore the city’s elegant architecture and vibrant culinary scene.

5. Alsace: Wander through the charming villages of Alsace, where half-timbered houses line cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the picturesque town of Strasbourg.

6. Brittany: Experience the rugged beauty of Brittany’s coastline, visit the mystical Carnac Stones, and savor fresh seafood in coastal towns like Saint-Malo.

7. Lyon: Indulge in the culinary delights of Lyon, often regarded as the gastronomic capital of France. Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, Explore its vibrant markets and historical Old Town.

8. Marseille: Discover the multicultural port city of Marseille, where you can explore historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and enjoy coastal views from the Calanques.

9. Corsica: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Corsica, with its rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and charming hilltop villages.

Corsica: Where the Mountains Kiss the Mediterranean

10. Avignon: Explore the historic city of Avignon, known for the Papal Palace and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge.

These destinations offer a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and cultural richness that France has to offer beyond the bustling streets of Paris.

Unique Things To Do in Paris

For the BEST COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN DECEMBER FOR COUPLES, While Paris is known for iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, there are plenty of unique activities to enjoy in the city. Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, Here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences:

1. Père Lachaise Cemetery: Visit the hauntingly beautiful Père Lachaise Cemetery, the final resting place of famous figures like Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde.

2. Canal Saint-Martin: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin and enjoy its charming bridges and waterside cafes.

3. Promenade Plantée: Walk along the elevated Promenade Plantée, an old railway viaduct transformed into a lush garden pathway.

4. Dine in a Local Bistro: Skip the touristy restaurants and opt for a traditional Parisian bistro to savor authentic French cuisine.

5. Explore the Catacombs: Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, Descend into the underground Catacombs of Paris, where millions of skeletal remains are arranged in a haunting but fascinating display.

6. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Relax in the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, a beautiful park with a serene lake and dramatic cliffs.

6 Unique Romantic Destinations in Europe

For couples seeking a romantic escape, Europe offers an array of enchanting destinations. Here are some unique romantic hideaways to consider:

1. Santorini, Greece: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the caldera, relax on pristine beaches, and explore charming villages with white-washed buildings.

2. Venice, Italy: Share a gondola ride along the picturesque canals of Venice and savor Italian cuisine in cozy trattorias.

3. Prague, Czech Republic: Stroll through the historic streets of Prague, with its fairytale architecture and romantic atmosphere.

4. Vienna, Austria: Experience the opulence of Vienna, known for its classical music heritage, grand palaces, and charming coffeehouses.

5. The Amalfi Coast, Italy: Revel in the stunning beauty of the Amalfi Coast, with its cliffside villages, azure waters, and coastal hikes.

6. Bruges, Belgium: Explore the medieval charm of Bruges, with its cobbled streets, romantic canals, and chocolate shops.

  People Also Ask :

Where is the prettiest place in france.

Determining the prettiest place in France is subjective, but popular scenic destinations include Provence, the French Riviera, the Loire Valley, and the French Alps.

Where do people go besides Paris?

People visit various regions in France besides Paris, such as the Provence, Normandy, Brittany, the French Riviera (Côte d'Azur), the Loire Valley, and the Bordeaux wine region.

What to explore outside Paris?

Outside Paris, you can explore historic cities like Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Strasbourg, Bordeaux, and Toulouse, as well as picturesque villages, wineries, and natural wonders.

What cities not to miss in France?

Cities not to miss in France include Marseille (for its Mediterranean charm), Lyon (for its gastronomy), Nice (for the French Riviera), Strasbourg (for its medieval charm), and Bordeaux (for wine lovers), among others.

Conclusion:

France’s allure extends far beyond the iconic landmarks of Paris. By venturing into the French countryside, you’ll uncover hidden gems, picturesque towns, and rich cultural experiences. Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris, Additionally, Paris itself offers a myriad of unique activities for those willing to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions.

Whether you’re navigating the French roads as a foreigner, discovering the best places to visit in France outside of Paris, or seeking unique experiences in France

Plan your trip with ontravelx and get ready for a journey full of breathtaking sights and priceless memories. Kindly Visit: https://en.convention.parisinfo.com/ https://www.chooseparisregion.org/news/tourism-paris

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Travel guide : Top 10 Best Places & Cities to Visit in France

Embarking on a journey through France, a country famed for its exquisite wine, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, is like stepping into a beautifully illustrated storybook. Each city and town tells a story, a blend of the past and the present, making it an essential destination for travelers seeking both beauty and depth.

Table of Contents

Discover the best places to visit in France, each with its locale rich history and its own narrative.

From the best places to explore France wineries to the best spots to chill on the beach, discover our dedicated guide to explore the top 10 places and cities in France that promise an unforgettable experience, especially for those with a penchant for fine wine and stunning views.

What are the best places to visit in France?

Paris, the iconic city of lights.

Paris , the luminescent heart of France, offers more than the quintessential allure of its landmarks and boulevards. A timeless destination that will captivate you with its rich history, stunning architecture, world-renowned art scene, and delicious cuisine. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral to charming neighborhood cafes and fashionable boutiques, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting city. Explore the Louvre Museum to see masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, stroll along the Seine River, and indulge in delectable French pastries and cheeses. Whether you’re a lover of art, history, fashion, or simply seeking a romantic getaway, Paris offers a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted and longing for more. Discover our dedicated guide of the best things to do in Paris .

If you’re a wine amateur, discover the hidden gem that is the Clos Montmartre vineyard, nestled in the iconic Montmartre neighborhood. This vineyard, spanning just 1,500 square meters, produces around 1,500 bottles of wine each year, making it a rare and coveted treat for wine enthusiasts. To truly immerse yourself in the world of French wine, consider visiting the best Paris wineries , all available on Winalist!

Reims, nested in the heart of Champagne

While journeying to Reims, one enters the sanctum of Champagne, a region where the effervescence of its namesake beverage permeates the air. The Gothic splendor of the Reims Cathedral, combined with history, art, and gastronomy converge to create a truly unforgettable destination.

But it is the champagne houses that truly make Reims a destination like no other. From the historic cellars of renowned houses like Veuve Clicquot or Champagne Ruinart to smaller, family-owned producers, there is no shortage of opportunities to taste and learn about the world-famous sparkling wine that has made the region famous. Discover the best Reims champagne houses to visit on Winalist and book your next experience for free.

Whether you are a champagne connoisseur, a history enthusiast, or simply a lover of beautiful architecture, Reims has something to offer everyone. 

Useful info & links:

• Get to Reims by high-speed train in 45 minutes from Paris (tickets here )
• Your ultimate guide to visiting Champagne in 2-3 days
• Best Champagne houses tours and tastings
• Guides to the Best things to do in Reims

Bordeaux, perfect for wine lovers

Bordeaux is a symphony in vineyards, a city synonymous with wine, offering an odyssey that weaves through historic châteaux and contemporary cellars. Nested in one of the most famous french wine regions , the wine routes around Bordeaux, with their illustrious Bordeaux wineries , beckon with promises of tastings that highlight the depth and complexity of this region’s offerings.

We must append Saint-Émilion , a jewel in Bordeaux’s crown, where the very cobblestones seem steeped in history and viticulture. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not merely a destination but a journey into the soul of Bordeaux’s winemaking tradition, offering insights and tastes that linger long after the journey has concluded.

If you’re here in summer and are in desperate search of a beach, drive south up to Biarritz and spend some great time surfing under the sun.

• Get to Bordeaux by high-speed train in 2h from Paris (tickets here ).
• Your ultimate 3 days itinerary to discover Bordeaux
• Guides to the Best things to do in Bordeaux
• Guides to the Best things to do in Saint-Emilion & Saint Emilion wineries to visit

Lyon, capital city of gastronomy

Lyon , the gastronomic capital of France, stands at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, a crossroads of culinary and vinous heritage. Here, the vibrant bouchons (typical Lyon restaurants) that serve as stages for the Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône wines to shine, accompanied by dishes that tell of the region’s bounty. Lyon is a city where food is seen as a form of art, with chefs showcasing their skills and creativity through traditional Lyonnaise dishes such as coq au vin, quenelles, and bouillabaisse. The city’s famous markets, such as Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse, offer a feast for the senses with stalls piled high with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and charcuterie.

Wine is also a key component of Lyon’s gastronomic culture, with vineyards in the nearby Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône regions producing some of the finest wines in France. Visitors can savor these wines at local bars and bouchons, traditional Lyonnaise eateries known for their warm and convivial atmosphere.

Useful links

• Get to Lyon by high-speed train in 2h from Paris (tickets here ).
• Your ultimate itinerary to discover Rhone Valley and rhone valley wineries to visit
• Guides to the Best things to do in Lyon & Lyon wineries to visit
• Best Beaujolais wineries to visit

Strasbourg, in the famous Alsace region

In the Alsace region, Strasbourg stands out with its charming half-timbered houses and vibrant Christmas market and is mostly famous for its stunning Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The city’s picturesque old town features narrow cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses, many of which date back to the medieval period. The crowning jewel of Strasbourg is undoubtedly its Christmas market, one of the oldest and most famous in Europe. The market fills the streets with the scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread, creating a festive atmosphere that is truly magical.

Just a short drive from Strasbourg is Colmar , a town that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Its well-preserved medieval old town is filled with colorful half-timbered houses, flower-filled canals, and charming squares. Colmar is also known for its museums, including the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Renaissance art.

Together, Strasbourg and Colmar offer a unique blend of French and German cultures, making them a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the best of both worlds. Whether you visit during the festive Christmas season or in the quieter months of the year, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty and charm of these two enchanting cities in the Alsace region. 

• Get to Strasbourg (capital city of Alsace) by high-speed train in 2h from Paris (tickets here ).
• Your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Alsace and Alsace wineries to visit
• Guides to the Best things to do in Strasbourg & Strasbourg wineries to visit
• Guides to the Best things to do in Colmar & Colmar wineries to visit
• Guide to Christmas Markets of Alsace

Chinon, in Loire Valley just near Brittany

In the verdant embrace of the Loire Valley lies Chinon , a town where the legacy of Cabernet Franc thrives amidst castles and fortresses. This picturesque locale provides a backdrop against which the narratives of vineyards and viticulture are intimately explored, revealing the subtleties of terroir and tradition. Chinon is known for its elegant and complex Cabernet Franc wines, characterized by their bright red fruit flavors, earthy undertones, and spicy notes. The region’s unique climate and limestone soil contribute to the distinctive profile of these wines, making them revered by wine enthusiasts around the world.

In addition to experiencing the world-class wines of Chinon, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the region. The imposing Château de Chinon, once home to King Henry II of England, stands as a testament to the town’s storied past. The winding streets of the old town are lined with charming cafes and boutiques, offering a taste of everyday life in this enchanting corner of France.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler looking to explore a new destination, Chinon offers a blend of history, culture, and world-class wine that is sure to enchant and inspire. So come, raise a glass of Chinon Cabernet Franc, and toast to the enduring legacy of this remarkable region. Santé! 

• Get to Chinon (via Tours) by train in 3h from Paris (tickets here ).
• Your ultimate guide to the best Itinerary to visit Loire Valley region and Loire Valley wineries
• Guides to the Best things to do in Tours & Tours wineries to visit
• Guides to the Best things to do in Chinon & Chinon wineries to visit

Dijon, in the picturesque Burgundy region

Venture to Dijon , the heart of Burgundy , where the vines are as deeply rooted in the landscape as the city’s architectural marvels, is a must-see place in France for any traveler. The Route des Grands Crus offers a pilgrimage through some of the world’s most esteemed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards, each glass a testament to the artistry of Burgundy’s winemakers up to Beaune, a perfect spot to settle in Burgundy.

• It’s best to rent a car to explore Burgundy and its villages. Either rent it from Paris or from Dijon (train ticket to dijon here )
• Best Dijon wineries and best things to do in Dijon
• The ultimate itinerary to visit Burgundy and Burgundy wineries to visit
• Guides to the Best things to do in Beaune & Beaune wineries to visit

Marseille, get the Provence art de vivre

Marseille , with its azure coastlines and sun-drenched terraces, offers a Mediterranean interpretation of wine culture. The city’s proximity to Cassis and Bandol introduces palates to wines that encapsulate the warmth and vibrancy of the Provence region, mirroring the sun-kissed landscapes from which they hail. Rosé wines, in particular, are a standout in Provence and are perfect for sipping on a balmy evening while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

If you’re looking to delve deeper into the world of viticulture, Provence wine guided tours and tastings are available at vineyards in the surrounding countryside. Learn about the winemaking process, sample a variety of wines, and gain a greater appreciation for the artistry and tradition behind each bottle.

Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply looking to savor a glass of something special on your vacation, Marseille offers a delightful fusion of wine and culture that is sure to enchant and delight. Santé! (Cheers!) 

If you have the time, we highly recommend adding Avignon to your itinerary, a beautiful city located about 90 kilometers north of Marseille is also famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the stunning Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) and the Pont d’Avignon (Bridge of Avignon). In addition to its historical sites, Avignon also offers charming streets, quaint cafes, and bustling markets. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and music festivals throughout the year.

• The ultimate guide to visiting Provence and Marseille wineries to visit
• Best things to do in Bandol
• Best things to do in Avignon and Avignon wineries to visit.

Deauville, on your way to normandy

If you’re planning on visiting France and particularly some of the D-Day beaches and D-Day memorial museums, allowing you to learn about the events of June 6, 1944, when Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy to begin the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation we recommend driving to the beautiful city of Deauville.

Deauville is a picturesque seaside resort town known for its elegant architecture, charming streets, and sandy beaches. While it may not have the historical significance of some of the other sites in Normandy, it offers a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere that can be a welcome break from the intensity of visiting D-Day sites and museums. Additionally, Deauville is known for its horse racing events, such as the prestigious Deauville American Film Festival and the annual horse races at the Deauville-La Touques racecourse. The town also has a bustling market, boutique shops, and a range of gourmet restaurants serving delicious French cuisine. Visiting Deauville can provide a different perspective on Normandy, allowing you to experience the region’s beauty and charm in a more leisurely setting.

Saint-Tropez, on the french riviera

Synonymous with glamour, Saint Tropez ‘s azure waters and legendary beaches have long attracted the jet set. Yet, it’s the town’s old-world charm and proximity to Provence’s vineyards that make it a truly enchanting place to visit. While on the French Riviera, you could also take a moment to visit Cannes ! Known for its annual film festival, attracting celebrities and film industry professionals from around the world and home to beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

• It’s best to rent a car to explore Provence or take a train to Cannes (tickets here ) and rent it from there.
• Guide to the Best things to do in Saint-Tropez and Saint-Tropez wineries

France is a country that promises endless discoveries – from the snow-capped peaks of the French Alps and Mont Blanc to the sunny shores of the Côte d’Azur and the historic beaches of Normandy.

Each city and town, with its unique charm and story, invites you to explore, taste, and immerse yourself in what it means to live the French way. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of metropolitan cities or the tranquil beauty of hilltop villages, France offers a mosaic of experiences that cater to every taste and sensibility. As you plan your trip to France, let these destinations inspire your journey, and prepare to uncover the best places, the finest wines, and the most beautiful landscapes this country has to offer. Get ready to explore the best of France, a journey where every moment is a brushstroke on the canvas of unforgettable memories.

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100 days to go: 100 iconic places to discover in France before Paris 2024

The Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will take place in exactly 100 days (on 26 July) along the Seine in the heart of the French capital, with a flotilla of boats flanked either side by some of the country's most cherished buildings and cultural gems.

But Paris is not alone in having breathtaking tourist sites , with the entire French territory populated with historical buildings and unique landscapes.

If you have secured your tickets to the Olympic Games or plan to book in the near future , spare some extra time to visit the rest of France: print this article, or take your notebook and write down some of the places below - you'll love to visit them!

This is a non-exhaustive and subjective list given the multitude of other exceptional places to visit in France.

Discover the map of the Olympic Torch Relay route ahead of the Olympic Games Paris 2024

Romantic castles in France

Chambord Castle (located in Loir-et-Cher): 16th century castle listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 July .

Chenonceau Castle (Indre-et-Loire): 16th century castle listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Blois Royal Castle (Loir-et-Cher): 13th century castle. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 July .

Cheverny Castle (Loir-et-Cher): inspiration for Tintin creator Hergé, which now hosts a permanent Tintin exhibition .

Guédelon Castle (Yonne): the site of a fortified castle, built using methods from the Middle Ages that started in 1997.

Versailles Castle (Yvelines): historic monument and former home of the kings of France since Louis XIV. The Paris 2024 equestrian and modern pentathlon events will take place here . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 July .

Vincennes Castle (Val-de-Marne): the largest royal castle in France. The Paris 2024 road cycling time trial will pass through here . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Ormesson Castle (Val-de-Marne): iconic Renaissance building from the 16th century. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Historical sites in France

Omaha Beach and the landing beaches (Calvados). On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 30 May .

Mont Saint-Michel (Manche): a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 31 May .

Place Stanislas in Nancy (Meurthe-et-Moselle): a classic urban spot listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

European institutions of Strasbourg (Bas-Rhin): significant administrative organisations are located in this beautiful city. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Caves of Lascaux (Dordogne): paintings and engravings from the Paleolithic era can be seen on the walls of these caves. Discovered in 1940 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 22 May .

Vauban fortifications in Besançon (Doubs): Twelve fortified buildings listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 25 June .

Garabit Viaduct (Cantal): 19th century bridge designed and built by Gustave Eiffel a few years before the Eiffel Tower.

Hospices de Beaune (Côte d'Or): 15th century Gothic hospital, classified as a historical monument and converted into a museum. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 July .

Chauvet Cave - Pont d'Arc (Ardèche): discovered in 1994 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cave contains Paleolithic paintings estimated to be more than 30,000 years old.

Old Port of Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône): iconic area of the city a few steps from the Olympic sailing venue and the Marseille Marina . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 May .

The Nîmes Arena (Gard): a Roman amphitheatre which dates back to the first century AD and is widely-considered one of the best-preserved antique arenas in the world.

The Millau Viaduct (Aveyron): an iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Tarn valley, which at its highest point reaches 343m. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 13 May .

Château d'If (Bouches-du-Rhône): a fortress built in the 16th century located off the coast of Marseilles, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel "The Count of Monte Cristo".

The alignments of Carnac (Morbihan): a site with thousands of menhirs (megalithic stones) which were built between the 5th and 7th millennia BC.

Provins (Seine-et-Marne): a historic site from the Middle Ages which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Belfort Citadel (Territory of Belfort): a historic site built in the Middle Ages and expanded in the 19th century.

The City of Carcassonne (Aude): a medieval town which is acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 16 May .

Najac (Aveyron): a picturesque town located in the French commune of Aveyron, with six monuments listed in France’s historical monuments.

Palais Idéal du facteur Cheval (Drôme): 'The Postman Cheval's Ideal Palace' is a classified historical monument built by a postman between 1879 and 1912.

Iconic places in France

The Route des Grands Crus de Bourgogne (Côte d'Or): a 60km-long tourist route which weaves through 37 vineyards.

Oradour-sur-Glane (Haute-Vienne): a historic village and location of a wartime massacre, now a solemn place of remembrance.

La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime): located on the Atlantic coast, the fortified port dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Port of Saint-Malo (Ille-et-Vilaine): a harbour which provides stunning views over the Emerald Coast. Don't miss the picture-postcard buildings in the town of Dinard and, in the distance, the tip of the Cape Fréhel. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Rennes (Ille-et-Vilaine): widely-considered the capital of Brittany and famous for its half-timbered houses, several of which date back to the 18th century, including the Parliament of Brittany, the Opera and City Hall. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Nantes (Loire-Atlantique): famed for its castle (Château des ducs de Bretagne), cathedral and the famous Passage Pommeraye. The city will host Olympic football matches at La Beaujoire Stadium .

'Promenade des Anglais' in Nice (Alpes-Maritimes): a famous avenue along the "Baie des anges" with several prestigious hotels within a short distance to another Olympic football stadium ( Nice Stadium ). On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 18 June .

Little Venice district in Colmar (Haut-Rhin): a picturesque district with several historic canals. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Troyes (Aube): a medieval town centred around beautiful buildings. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 13 July .

The Grand’Place in Lille (Nord): an outstanding urban site not far from Lille’s Olympic venue: Pierre-Mauroy Stadium. On the Olympic Torch Relay: 2 July .

The forest of Fontainebleau (Seine-et-Marne): a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site with its castle classified as a historical monument. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 20 July .

The Hippodrome (racecourse) of Enghien-Soisy, near Enghien-les-Bains (Val d’Oise): famous for its horse races. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 July .

The Bouchons Lyonnais (Rhône): traditional and local French restaurants, located near the Olympic venue Lyon Stadium .

Quais de Bordeaux (Gironde): the capital of Gironde, along the Garonne River where the Bordeaux Stadium - an Olympic football venue - is located. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 May .

Pays basque (Nouvelle-Aquitaine): a cultural region located by the Pyrenees on the border with Spain. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 20 May .

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Lot): a picture-perfect region in Lot and home to the Causses du Quercy Regional Natural Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val (Tarn-et-Garonne): a commune listed among the Great Sites of the Occitanie region.

Pays Cathare (Occitanie): offers breathtaking views in the Aude region.

Gouffre de Padirac (Lot): a natural cave with an underground river flowing 100m below the surface.

Rocamadour (Lot): get your cameras ready for this local area highlighted by the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Dune of Pilat (Gironde): the highest sand dune in Europe, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Arcachon Basin.

Cordes-sur-Ciel (Tarn): a commune listed in the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France and voted France's Favourite Village in the TV show of the same name.

Collioure (Pyrénées-Orientales): an area located in Pyrénées-Orientales on the Mediterranean coast with a picturesque marina. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 15 May .

Rungis Market (Val-de-Marne): home of the biggest farmers market in the world. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Museums and cultural activities in France

Verdun Memorial (Meuse): a museum dedicated to the history of the Battle of Verdun that took place during World War I. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 29 June .

Louvre-Lens Museum (Pas-de-Calais): linked to the Louvre Museum by a scientific and cultural convention. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 3 July .

Armistice Memorial in Rethondes (Oise): dedicated to the armistice at the end of World War I.

Festival of Lights in Lyon (Rhône): an annual event where light installations are projected onto numerous buildings in the city.

Avignon Festival (Vaucluse): a famous month-long annual festival of theatre and other live performances.

Rencontres de la Photographie in Arles (Bouches-du-Rhône): an international photography festival.

Mucem (Bouches-du-Rhône): Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations in Marseille.

Musée des Confluences in Lyon (Rhône): a museum of natural history located where two famous rivers meet, the Rhône and the Saône.

Music Day (France): celebrations and concerts take place throughout the French territory on 21 June of each year.

Musée des Impressionnismes (Eure): museum dedicated to the impressionist movement located in Giverny, home of its most famous resident Claude Monnet.

Musée de la BD d’Angoulême (Charente): museum dedicated to comic books, where an annual festival is held every January. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 24 May .

LYON, FRANCE - DECEMBER 04: For four nights over 70 light installations will create a magical atmosphere in the streets, squares and parks all over the city and millions of visitors both French and from abroad will enjoy the friendly and joyful spirit of this unique event on December 4, 2014 in Lyon, France. (Photo by Bruno Vigneron/Getty Images)

Natural sites in France

La Chaîne of the Puys (Puy-de-Dôme): chain of 80 volcanos listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vichy (Allier): a spa resort listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Poitevin Marsh (Vendée, Deux-Sèvres, Charente-Maritime): area of marshland nicknamed The Green Venice, where you can take a boat through meadows and woodlands. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 2 June .

Pink Granite Coast (Côtes d’Armor): coastline with pink rock formations more than 3,000 years old, and home to the Castle of Costaérès.

Les Abers (Finistère): picture-perfect fjords in Brittany. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 7 June .

Paimpon in the forest of Brocéliande (Ille-et-Vilaine): famous for its myths and legends since the Medieval Ages. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Loire Estuary (Loire-Atlantique): preserved wetlands.

Salt marshes of Guérande (Loire-Atlantique): an area spanning 50 km2 that has produced salt for thousands of years.

Cliffs of Étretat (Seine-Maritime): iconic site of Normandy with the famous Porte d’Aval, a natural arch made by the sea, on the white chalk coastline. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 5 July .

Verdon Gorge (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Var): a river canyon 25km in length with 700m cliffs.

Calanques national park (Bouches-du-Rhône): a series of creeks along the Mediterranean coastline that is lined with hiking trails between Marseille and Cassis. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Mont-Blanc (Haute-Savoie): the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe (4,805m) and Aiguille du midi (3,842m), that is reachable by cable car. Mont-Blanc is located at the edge of Chamonix city, host of Chamonix 1924 , the first Winter Olympic Games in history. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 June .

Montagne Sainte-Victoire (Bouches-du-Rhône): iconic mountain made famous by the painter Paul Cézanne. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Parc naturel régional du Luberon (Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence): mediterranean mountain with multiple picturesque villages.

Gorges de l’Ardèche (Ardèche): a 30-kilometre canyon with limestone cliffs overlooking the Ardèche river.

Port-Cros national park (Var): a natural site made up of several islands off the Mediterranean coast of Hyères. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 10 May .

Scandola Nature Reserve (Corse-du-Sud): an iconic marina home to exceptional biodiversity and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 14 May .

Pic du Midi de Bigorre (Hautes-Pyrénées): a mountain in the French Pyrenees, famous for its observatory. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 May .

Cirque de Gavarnie (Hautes-Pyrénées): a picture-perfect valley in the central Pyrenees.

Gorges de l’Aveyron (Tarn-et-Garonne and Aveyron): a series of gorges registered as part of the Great Sites of the Occitanie region.

Parc naturel régional de Camargue (Bouches-du-Rhône): a 372,000-acre protected wetland home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including 30,000 pink flamingos. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Jura lakes (Jura): 70 lakes famed for their astonishing beauty and connected by a 93-mile road with panoramic views.

CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC, FRANCE - FEBRUARY 25: Alpine skiers ski down a piste at La Flegere ski resort as the Mont Blanc summit is seen in the distance on February 25, 2018 near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. The French Alps are a popular destination for skiers and climbers, though they are also dangerous. Several visitors have fallen to their deaths while skiing or snowboarding off piste just in recent weeks. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

There’s more than one Notre-Dame!

Chartres Cathedral (Eure-et-Loire): a 12th century Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 7 July .

Saint-Étienne de Bourges Cathedral (Cher): a 12th century Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near the Chateauroux Shooting Centre at Paris 2024 .

Sainte-Croix d’Orléans Cathedral (Loiret): a 13th century Gothic cathedral. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 10 July .

Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Port de Clermont-Ferrand (Puy-de-Dôme): a 12th century Romanesque basilica and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Notre-Dame de l’Assomption de Clermont Cathedral (Puy-de-Dôme): a 13th century Gothic cathedral.

Notre-Dame du Puy-en-Velay Cathedral (Haute-Loire): a 13th century Romanesque cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Abbey of Fontenay (Côte d'Or): the oldest preserved Cistercian abbey, built in the 12th century, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay (Côte d'Or): a Romanesque and Gothic basilica erected in the 12th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 11 July .

Notre-Dame de La Charité-sur-Loire Priory (Yonne): 11th century Romanesque priory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre Cathedral (Yonne): 16th century Gothic cathedral. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 11 July .

Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral (Bas-Rhin): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral (Marne): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 30 June .

Notre-Dame d'Amiens Cathedral (Somme): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 4 July .

Palais des Papes of Avignon (Vaucluse): a Middle Age Gothic palace where the Pope lived in the 14th century. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 June .

Notre-Dame-de-La-Garde Cathedral (Bouches-du-Rhône): a cathedral overlooking the city of Marseille – where the Marseille stadium and Marina , two Olympic venues, are located – that is nicknamed ‘La Bonne Mère’.

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Best of Paris

Where to Stay Outside of Paris: Top Options for Experiences

Paris, the city of love and lights, offers countless attractions, but there is much more to explore within easy reach of the bustling metropolis. For travelers seeking where to stay outside of Paris, it is a more serene and picturesque experience, several charming small towns near Paris provide the perfect getaway. These quaint destinations offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, just a stone’s throw away from the French capital.

Nestled among the idyllic French countryside, these towns provide visitors with a quiet retreat without sacrificing accessibility.

With excellent dining options, unique shopping opportunities, and awe-inspiring attractions, these towns effortlessly cater to travelers of all ages and interests. Close proximity to Paris makes these destinations ideal for visitors looking to expand their horizons beyond the city limits.

As travelers explore the beautiful small towns around Paris, they’ll immerse themselves in a quintessentially French atmosphere . Each town boasts its distinctive character, and through their unique blend of timeless charm and modern amenities, visitors will discover a captivating world just outside the bustling capital.

Table of Contents

Navigating the Region

Top destinations for accommodation, hotels outside paris, staying near paris with a car, accommodations for the olympics, exploring nearby towns, where to stay near paris, frequently asked questions, which commuter towns are popular near paris, what are the best cities to visit around paris, which suburbs are recommended for staying near paris, what are some cities near paris with easy train access.

The countryside surrounding Paris offers a plethora of picturesque towns and villages to visit, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Choosing where to stay outside Paris depends on various factors, such as transportation accessibility, natural scenery, and regional attractions.

One popular option is to stay in areas with easy access to train lines leading into the city. These towns provide a balance between a relaxed rural atmosphere and convenient connections to Parisian landmarks.

Fontainebleau, for instance, is home to a beautiful royal château and vast forests, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers. The town is easily accessible from Paris via train, taking approximately an hour.

To the north of Paris, Chantilly offers an exceptional cultural experience with its majestic Château de Chantilly and notable horse-racing culture. This town is an attractive choice for those who appreciate French history and equine sports.

Similarly, Senlis is another historic town north of Paris worth considering. Its cobbled streets and Gothic cathedral contribute to a unique charm that draws visitors from all over the world.

For those seeking a more peaceful retreat, Giverny is a popular choice, owing to the village’s association with famed impressionist painter Claude Monet. Visitors can tour his home and garden, which inspired many of his renowned works. Giverny is well-connected, allowing guests to take the train into the city easily.

When looking for accommodation, consider these factors:

• Transportation : Ensure your chosen location has reliable train connections to central Paris.
• Attractions : Consider your preferences, such as interest in historical sites or natural scenery, before deciding on a destination.
• Amenities : Check if the towns you’re considering have a good selection of dining and shopping options.
• Budget : Decide on the most appropriate choice considering lodging expenses and transportation costs.

Ultimately, where you stay outside Paris will depend on your preferences and vacation goals. Each location offers unique experiences and attractions that cater to diverse travelers, but all provide a charming alternative to the buzz of the city center.

See Related: Le 105 bis Eiffel

When considering the best places to stay outside of Paris, it’s essential to consider the accessibility, amenities, and atmosphere of the location. Here are our top recommendations for hotels outside Paris:

• Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace : Located near the famous Palace of Versailles, this luxurious hotel offers a tranquil escape from the city while still providing easy access to Paris. The hotel has parking and excellent dining options.
• Hôtel Le Walt : Offering picturesque views of the Eiffel Tower , this hotel in the suburbs provides a luxury stay just a short distance away from the heart of Paris. With convenient public transportation options nearby, exploring the city center is easy.
• Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel : This mid-range hotel provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities, while still being close enough to experience the city. Parking is available, and the hotel is just a short drive away from popular Parisian attractions.
• Hôtel Eiffel : A budget-friendly option outside of Paris, Hôtel Eiffel offers clean and comfortable accommodations with easy access to public transportation. Guests can enjoy nearby shopping and restaurants while still being within reach of Paris’s attractions.
• Résidence Charles Floquet : For those looking for an apartment-style accommodation, Résidence Charles Floquet offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens and living spaces. This option is located in a quiet neighborhood, providing a relaxing retreat from the bustling city.
• People – Paris Bercy : This budget-friendly hotel offers affordable accommodations in a vibrant neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. With easy access to public transportation, guests can reach central Paris quickly and efficiently.

When choosing the best place to stay outside of Paris, consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, availability of parking, and the desired atmosphere. These recommend locations meet various needs and preferences, ensuring a pleasant and memorable stay just beyond the city limits.

See Related : Hôtel Olympic by Patrick Hayat

When planning a trip to the city of love, travelers might prefer staying in quaint towns outside of Paris, especially if they have a car. These towns offer a combination of charming countryside atmosphere, shopping opportunities, and accessibility to other cities.

Chantilly is a great choice for those looking for accommodations outside Paris. It is only 50 km (31 miles) from the city center and offers a range of hotels such as Manoir des Cavaliers , which has ample free on-street parking. Chantilly is also well-known for its picturesque scenery, cultural heritage, and the famous Château de Chantilly.

Another option is Vincennes , a beautiful suburb southeast of Paris. It has easy access to the city via the metro, RER, or suburban trains. Vincennes is home to the stunning Château de Vincennes and the Bois de Vincennes, a vast park ideal for leisurely strolls.

A couple more suburbs worth considering include Saint-Mande and Charenton , both located near Vincennes. They offer a variety of accommodations, shopping and dining options, as well as easy access to Paris.

To the east of Paris, Nogent-sur-Marne and Bry-sur-Marne are two other attractive towns along the Marne River. They boast beautiful riverside walking paths, traditional French architecture, and numerous hotels to choose from with parking facilities.

Below is the summarized information for your convenience:

TownDistance from ParisNotable AttractionsParking optionsChantilly50 kmChâteau de ChantillyOn-streetVincennes8 kmChâteau de VincennesHotel parkingSaint-Mande9 kmBois de VincennesHotel parkingCharenton8 kmSquare des Frères LamennaisHotel parkingNogent-sur-Marne15 kmWatersports parkHotel parkingBry-sur-Marne18 kmRiverside walksHotel parking

In summary, when visiting Paris and planning to drive, these towns balance peaceful surroundings and accessibility to the city. Always double-check the parking options when booking a hotel in these areas, as options may vary.

See Related: Paris River Cruise: A Comprehensive Guide to Unforgettable Experiences

When planning a trip to the Paris Olympics in 2024, finding the right accommodation is essential. Many visitors may prefer to stay outside of the bustling city center, allowing for a more relaxed and quiet experience. Several options are available within a 30 to 45-minute commute to central Paris, making them ideal locations for those attending the games.

One option for staying outside of Paris is the Ile-de-France region, which offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious chateaus. The area is well-connected by train and bus services, ensuring easy access to all the Olympic venues across Paris.

The city of Lille is another excellent option for those looking for accommodations during the Olympics. Lille will be hosting basketball and handball events, making it a convenient choice for attendees of those specific games. Additionally, Lille is well-connected to Paris by train, with travel times typically under two hours.

Other cities hosting soccer events, such as Bordeaux , Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Nice, and St-Etienne, offer a variety of accommodations and are well-connected to Paris by train. Sailing enthusiasts can find lodging in Marseille, which will host sailing competitions during the Olympics.

When considering accommodations outside of Paris for the Olympics, it is crucial to weigh factors such as travel time, convenience, and the specific events you plan to attend. With numerous options available, visitors can find the perfect place to stay and enjoy the Paris Olympics to the fullest.

See Related: Hotel Providence

When planning a trip to Paris, it’s worth considering a stay in one of the many charming small towns located just a short distance away from the bustling city center. These quaint locations allow visitors to experience the beauty and charm of the French countryside while still enjoying convenient access to Paris.

Chantilly is one such town that stands out for its rich history and architectural wonders, such as the stunning Château de Chantilly and its beautiful gardens. A mere 50 km north of Paris, it is easily accessible by train. Another nearby town to explore is Fontainebleau , located about 60 km south of Paris. Home to the impressive Fontainebleau Palace that once housed French royalty, this historical town offers visitors the opportunity to experience French history and culture at its finest.

For those in search of a picturesque village experience, Provins is an ideal choice. At approximately 90 km east of Paris, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts an impressive medieval architecture and hosts various festivals throughout the year. Additionally, Giverny should be on any art lover’s itinerary, as it is home to Claude Monet’s famous house and gardens. Located only 75 km west of Paris, visitors can easily access this town by train.

Nature enthusiasts might consider a trip to the Rambouillet area, about 50 km southwest of Paris. With its thriving wildlife sanctuary and lush Forest of Rambouillet, this destination offers a tranquil retreat from the busy city life.

With so many options to choose from, visitors can easily find charming small towns near Paris that cater to their unique interests. Each of these destinations offers a delightful escape from the city, while still providing convenient access for day trips to the French capital.

See Related: Hotel Galileo

Staying outside of Paris allows you to enjoy the charm of nearby small towns while still having access to the city. Here are a few options that offer great accommodations and easy access to Paris.

Provins : Located 70 km southeast of Paris, Provins is a medieval town once the capital of the powerful Counts of Champagne. The town’s well-preserved architecture and rich history make it a fantastic choice for a day trip or short stay. Getting to Paris is quite simple, as Provins is well-connected by train.

Vincennes : A beautiful suburb southeast of Paris, Vincennes offers a perfect blend of lush greenery and accessibility. Key attractions include the Château de Vincennes and the Bois de Vincennes , Paris’ largest public park. Vincennes is connected to the city by both metro and RER trains, making it easy to explore Paris.

Chantilly : Just 50 km north of Paris, Chantilly is a charming city known for its magnificent Château de Chantilly, horse racing, and extensive forests. Accommodations in the area range from elegant hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Chantilly can be reached by train in just 25 minutes from Paris Gare du Nord.

Nogent-sur-Marne : Situated along the scenic Marne River, Nogent-sur-Marne is a peaceful suburb with lovely scenery and delightful architecture. This tranquil area is well-connected by RER trains, making it an ideal base for those seeking a quiet retreat while visiting Paris.

Les Villages Nature Paris : This eco-friendly resort offers a unique stay in the Parisian suburbs, surrounded by lush gardens, a large lake, and nature-focused activities. The resort is easily accessible by train and just a short distance from Disneyland Paris . Explore these picturesque towns and suburbs to experience a different side of France, all while staying within reach of the bustling city of Paris.

See Related: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris

There are several commuter towns located around the outskirts of Paris that are known for their shopping, restaurant scenes, and accessibility. Some popular towns include Fontainebleau, Meaux, Rambouillet, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, and Versailles. Each town offers unique attractions, cultural experiences, and local charm to make for delightful stays while well-connected to Paris.

Apart from the commuter towns, several other cities near Paris are worth exploring. Consider a visit to Chartres, famous for its gothic cathedral, or Rouen, known for its rich history and half-timbered houses. Alternatively, discover the picturesque town of Giverny, home to Claude Monet’s famous gardens, or venture to the medieval city of Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.e the best cities to visit around Paris?

Several suburbs offer a more relaxed atmosphere while still remaining accessible to the city center. Some recommended options include Boulogne-Billancourt, known for its parks and museums, Neuilly-sur-Seine, an upscale residential area with a charming town center, and Vincennes, which boasts both an extensive forest and a historically significant château. These suburbs balance quaintness and accessibility, making them ideal for travelers seeking a more tranquil stay.

Trains make it incredibly convenient to visit cities around Paris while staying connected to the city center. Cities such as Reims, the center of the Champagne region, and Lille, known for its Flemish architecture and lively atmosphere, can be reached in under an hour and a half by train. Additionally, Blois and Orléans, located in the Loire Valley, are also well connected by train and offer visitors a gateway to the region’s famous châteaux.

Related Resources

• Best Paris Tour Packages: Tips to Book the Perfect Vacation
• Mont St Michel Full-Day Tour by Train from Paris
• 20 Best Boat Tours in Paris, France

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• Paris in the Spring: 15 Things to See and Do

Have you booked a short break in Paris? Explore our list of Inspector-approved activities to enjoy the warmer weather in the French capital.

Things to do in Paris

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

Wondering what to do in Paris ? Not sure how to make the most of the city in the beautiful springtime? The MICHELIN Guide has got you covered! With our selection of 15 fabulous spots in and around the city, you can make the most of the milder weather and go full Emily in Paris. Channel your inner Parisian at the best restaurants with outside tables; enjoy a picnic or admire the cherry blossom at the prettiest gardens and parks; and discover the best ice cream shops, open-air markets, and flea markets.

1- Bask in the sun on one of the capital's 3,000 terraces

Rooftop spaces with a bird's-eye view of the city, leafy courtyards sheltered from sight and the noise of the street… in Paris, some restaurant terraces are real treasures, jealously guarded by those in the know. With an intimate terrace hidden from view, Apicius is set in a sumptuous 18th-century mansion akin to a small palace; overlooking the River Seine and the Eiffel Tower, Monsieur Bleu is ensconced in the Palais de Tokyo; and then there is the impressive terrace of Michelin-Starred Le Tout-Paris , a brasserie perched on the seventh floor of the Cheval Blanc hotel  (3 MICHELIN Keys). From Saint-Germain to Montmartre, via the Eiffel Tower, discover all the loveliest terraces in Paris!

More good news for fans of outdoor dining is that this year, as every year since 2021, the capital's 3,000 or so outdoor cafés will be allowed to expand and overflow onto the sidewalk too. Even better: from 1st April to 31st October 2024, these pop-up terraces will be open until midnight (instead of their usual closing time of 10pm).

2- Go bargain-hunting outside, from the bouquinistes to brocanteurs

The return of warmer weather means getting out in the fresh air! The City of Paris regularly publishes a list of the best flea markets. But for anyone who loves antiques and vintage design, the best place to go remains the Puces de Saint-Ouen, the world's largest flea market, where antique dealers and brocanteurs (second-hand dealers) sell their wares. This Marché aux Puces is spread over 7 hectares and encompasses no fewer than 11 different markets and over 2,000 stalls and shops. Furniture, bronze ornaments, lights, tableware, jewelry, books, archaeological finds… Pick up a rare piece as you wander through the narrow streets of this bohemian market founded in 1885, or sit on the terrace of a café and listen to a gypsy jazz concert. Another typically Parisian point of interest: the bouquinistes . These are booksellers who set up on the Right Bank of the River Seine, from Pont Marie to the Quai du Louvre, and on the Left Bank, from the Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire – they specialize in old editions and second-hand books.

NEW: Discover Paris by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and enjoy the City of Light

3- Picnic in a park with a view of cherry trees blossoming

If you ask a Parisian what their favorite springtime activity is, the chances are they'll say having a picnic. If you're lucky enough to be in the capital during that brief period when the cherry trees are in bloom, then your timing is perfect! In the Jardin des Plantes, the impressive 'Shirotae' Japanese cherry tree stands at 8m tall, and its branches form a giant parasol measuring 12m across. Square Marie-Trintignant on the edge of the historical Marais has a number of benches overlooking the nearby Seine. But if you're a true cherry blossom fan, the Parc de Sceaux is the place to go to see a remarkable floral explosion. From 30th March to 28th April 2024, the park is celebrating Hanami, the Japanese festival marking the blossoming of the sakura (cherry trees) – of which there are more than 150 scattered across the 180 hectare estate. Other green spaces where you can relax on the grass and tuck into your picnic are the Luxembourg Gardens, the Champ de Mars at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Buttes Chaumont, and Parc de Belleville, which commands one of the best views in the capital from its hilltop location. And let's not forget Parc Montsouris, in the very south of Paris.

4- Stock up on top-notch produce at the best markets

Would Paris be Paris without its countless food markets? With stalls packed with mouth-watering produce from all over France, they illustrate Parisians' obsession with good food. From the stalls of the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges to the crowded paths of the Marché d'Aligre, take a stroll through The MICHELIN Guide's favorite Parisian markets .

5- Hire a license-free boat or embark on a cruise

With Marin d'Eau Douce, hire a license-free electric boat and navigate the waters at your own pace, whether with friends, family or a date. Alternatively, hop aboard one of the famous Bateaux-Mouches, Vedettes de Paris or Bateaux Parisiens for a River Seine cruise taking in sights such as the Invalides, Musée d'Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower. At night, with its illuminated bridges and monuments, the capital feels like a life-size film set. The Seine doesn't have a monopoly on Parisian waterways. Enjoyable cruises are also organized on Canal Saint-Martin, Canal de l'Ourcq, and the River Marne. Paris Canal takes you alongside the Musée d'Orsay, the Philharmonie, and La Géode; Canauxrama offers a range of cruise formats, from an introduction to the Paris of Parisians to a full-day exploration of the banks of the River Marne.

6- Savor the best ice creams and sorbets in Paris

Just a stone's throw from the Sacré Coeur Basilica, at 16 Place des Abbesses, Une Glace à Paris came up with the concept of offering outdoor seating in the form of deckchairs. Their delicious sorbets and ice creams are designed by Emmanuel Ryon (a Meilleur Ouvrier de France Glacier and World Pastry Champion) and Olivier Ménard. You can of course also order your cornet to take with you as you explore the streets of Montmartre. Head for the most popular sights, from Café des Deux Moulins, made famous by the film Amélie, to the bronze bust of the singer Dalida at the top of rue de l'Abreuvoir. On Île Saint Louis, Berthillon has become a real institution, having reigned supreme since the 1950s. Their recipes are guaranteed to contain no artificial colors or preservatives, and the menu features around 40 flavors on any given day (there are over 90 altogether): marron glacé, blackcurrant, mango, roasted pineapple with basil… all delicious!

7- Admire the greatest masterpieces at the European Night of Museums

Around mid-May, just before summer is in full swing, a magical night takes place in Paris. The European Night of Museums is a not-to-be-missed event organized by the Ministry of Culture, offering free evening entry to over 3,000 museums in France and Europe. As night falls, soak up the festive atmosphere with new routes, guided tours, open-air events, live shows, music, and culinary delights! In Paris, the Musée d'Orsay, Fondation Louis Vuitton, and Centre Pompidou will be welcoming you free of charge for this 20th edition, which falls on Saturday 18th May 2024. It's also an opportunity to visit the Louvre, as well as its eponymous brasserie with tables set up beneath the arcades of this quintessentially Haussmann-style building. But take note: you'll need to pre-book!

8- Get romantic in the gardens of the Musée de la Vie Romantique

South of Montmartre, on the other side of Boulevard de Clichy, the bucolic ‘Museum of Romantic Life’ is well worth a visit. From the ground floor (where writer George Sand's room has been recreated) to the first floor (dedicated to painter Ary Scheffer), it sweeps us back to the 19th century. But the main draw of this private mansion is its foliage-kissed terrace – one of the most idyllic in the capital, complete with an English-style tearoom, Rose Bakery. At a remove from the hustle and bustle, this green space is an oasis of calm in the heart of the 9th arrondissement.

9- Visit the Opéra, the Eiffel Tower… and the best restaurants in the area!

Kill two birds with one stone: Avoid the tourist traps and confidently head to these top restaurants located close to Paris's most beautiful monuments , not forgetting the excellent bistro Le Maquis , just a 15 minute walk from Montmartre.

10- Get a bird's-eye view of Paris: belvederes, rooftops and balloon rides

Springtime in Paris (usually) means clear skies. From the Belvédère de Belleville to the Tour d'Argent or the Jules Verne restaurant in the Eiffel Tower, from the upper terrace of the Arc de Triomphe to our favorite rooftops , see Paris from a different angle at these sky-high venues! If you want to go even higher, the Ballon de Paris Generali – in the Parc André Citroën (15th arrondissement) on the banks of the Seine – promises an unforgettable experience for young and old, from 0 to 99 years. Aboard the world's largest hot-air balloon, see the capital and its monuments from 150m above the ground.

11- Eat macarons

The famous almond-based sweet is distinguished by its texture, which is at once both crunchy and soft. The most famous brands are Ladurée, Lenôtre, Dalloyau, Fauchon, and Pierre Hermé, but there are also noteworthy lesser-known names; for instance, Jean-Paul Hévin, one of the best chocolatiers in Paris, has created a delicious macaron with Peruvian Grand Cru dark chocolate. There's also Chez Carette (Place des Vosges and Place du Tertre) and Yannick Lefort, another macaron specialist, in the 6th arrondissement. And don't forget Le Jardin Sucré (17th arrondissement), whose shop is nestled next to Parc Monceau. Get ready for a rainbow of flavors! For the record, it was Queen Catherine de' Medici, of Italian origin, who imported the macaron to France in the 16th century. It was a roaring success, shooting to fame all over France during the Renaissance and giving rise to the Amiens Macaron, the Saint-Emilion Macaron, and the Nancy Macaron. The Parisian version, also known as the Macaron Gerbet, only appeared in the 19th century.

12- Take a dip in the most stunning open-air, Art Deco swimming pool in Paris

Luxury hotel Molitor Paris has taken over the Molitor swimming pool , a legendary venue from the 1920s up to the 1980s. Tastefully renovated by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, the outdoor pool has had extra floors added, including a roof terrace overlooking the city. It also boasts a Clarins spa and a fantastic restaurant run by an award-winning chef. Behind the ultra-contemporary veneer, the site's Art Deco heritage has been preserved, not least the original studded portholes and 1940s furniture. Access to the swimming pool is, of course, included in the room rate.

13- Order an excellent specialty coffee… or the best hot chocolate!

There was a time when the average espresso at a Parisian café was undrinkable, being dubbed ‘jus de chaussette’ (‘sock juice’), but over the last decade the capital has been making up for lost time. When it comes to coffee, Paris has nothing left to prove and now even boasts a number of quality coffee roasteries. If you're not a fan of caffeine, you can fall back on our best Parisian haunts for a hot chocolate. Drink in or take away if you can, to sip as you wander the streets of the capital.

14- Enjoy the gardens of Versailles, its fountains and restaurants

Considered among the most fabulous in Europe and the world, the royal gardens of Versailles come into their own in spring. Take in the Palace of Versailles fountain show, in which the water interacts with lights and music. Then refuel at Le Bistrot du 11 , just a stone's throw from the palace, one of five establishments in Île-de-France (the Paris region) to have recently been awarded a Bib Gourmand .

15- Watch a tennis match at Roland Garros

The French Open is back from 20th May to 9th June for another championship! Located in the west of Paris, at Porte d'Auteuil, on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne, the Roland Garros Stadium hosts this Grand Slam tournament every year, as well as the Paris Major Premier Padel. The sun will hopefully be shining, so don't forget your hat and sunglasses. Celebrities are often to be seen watching from the stands, so you might even bump into a famous face while you’re here!

Illustration image © Dan Asaki / Unsplash

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